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ISRAEL ANGELL 




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ISRAEL ANGELL 

COLONEL OF THE 
2nd RHODE ISLAND REGIMENT 



(G. P. P= S) 



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Diploma of the Society of the Cincinnati 
Original in Possession of Mr. H. I. Angell 



ISRAEL ANGELL 

1 


COLONEL OF 


THE 


2nd RHODE ISLAND 


REGIMENT 


BY 




LOUISE LEWIS 


LOVELL 


® 




tIDJje Enicfeerljatfeet 


' 3^xtsisi 


(G. P. PUTNAM'S 


SONS) 


1921 





/ 



2)eC)icate& 

WITH MUCH LOVE 
TO 

ELIZABETH and LANE LOVELL 

GRANDCHILDREN 
OF 

Louise Lewis Lovell 

AND 

great-great-great-grandchildren 

OF 

Israel Angell 



PREFACE 

The following pages have been written as a tribute 
to my great-grandfather, from such sources as were 
available during a search of twenty years. 

Hoping to share with others the pleasure I have 
had, this book is now offered as a portion of their 
rightful inheritance to each and every descendant of 
Israel Angell. These facts concerning his life have 
been assembled in as simple, intimate, and home- 
like a manner as possible in order that our ancestor 
shall seem to be as much one of us as the long interval 
of years will permit. 

Should this book fall into the hands of a descend- 
ant or of anyone else who may be able to put in my 
way additional personal data, or information con- 
cerning articles possessed by Israel Angell, I shall 
be extremely glad to get into communication with 
them. 

I wish particularly to express my indebtedness to 
Mr. H. I. Angell and to Colonel George L. Shepley 
for the privilege of inspecting and copying papers 
in their possession, which kindness I now gratefully 
acknowledge. 

In collecting the material for this book, especially 



viii Preface 

that part dealing with the mihtary life of Israel Angell, 
I have been assisted by Captain Eben Putnam, from 
whose compilations, made at my request, concerning 
the Continental Forces of Rhode Island many 
extracts have been taken. 

To the officers thereof is due the efficiency of 
a regiment, and the relation of the activities of 
the battalion and regiment commanded by Colonel 
Angell is, necessarily, the history of his services 
during the War for Independence. I regret not be- 
ing able to give fuller details of this period, but 
enough has been presented to show clearly the ability, 
the efficiency, and the unselfishness of this brave man. 



Louise Lewis Lovell. 



Washington, D. C. 
April, 1 92 1. 



CONTENTS 



PART 

CHAPTER 

I. — ^Ancestry . 
Forbears 

Inherited Characteristics 
Effect of Surroundings. 

II. — Outline of Life 
Where Born . 
Boyhood 
Chief Influences 
Army Life 
Later Days 
Death 

III.— The Man . 

As the Head of His Family 
As a Member of Society 
As a Citizen . 
As a Friend 

IV. — A Word to His Descendants 

His Character as an Inheritance 
His Example as an Inspiration 
His Memory as a Treasure 



PAGB 
I 



12 



28 



64 



PART II 



Military Life . 

Letters, Documents 



71 



Contents 



PART III 

Genealogical Data . 

APPENDIX 

Letters .... 
Regimental Lands . 
Pension .... 
Miscellaneous 

Orderly Books 

Rosters and Returns 

Index .... 



PAGE 



217 



355 



ILLUSTRATIONS 
Diploma of the Society of the Cincinnati Frontispiece •^ 

Original in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell. facing 

PAGE 

Eagle of the Cincinnati . . . . . . 20 ^ 

Obverse and reverse. Original in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell. 

Itinerary of Journey to Chenango County . . 32 «^ 

From page of diary in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell. 

Commission as Major in the Army of Observation . 74 

Original in Pension Bureau, Washington. 

Commission as Major, iith Regiment of Foot . 86 

Original in Pension Bureau, Washington. 

Map, Showing Battles of Trenton and Princeton . 104 

From Sparks's Washington 

Commission as Colonel, Army of the United States 108 

Original in Pension Bureau, Washington. 

Map, Showing Military Movements in New Jersey 126 

From Sparks's Washington 

Facsimile of Page of Letter Book, 20th April, 1780 156 
Plan of the Battleground at Springfield, N. J. . 166 
Tablet Erected to Memory of Colonel Angell . 168 

Commemorative of the "gallant behavior of Colonel Angell's 
regiment." Placed on the bridge at Springfield, N. J., by- 
Mrs. Louise Lewis Lovell. 

Facsimile of Page of Letter Book . . , .174 

" To the Governor and Council, State of Rhode Island." 



xii Illustrations 



FACING 

PAGE 



Letter of Israel Angell to George Washington, 
1ST January, 1781 180 

Original in Library of Congress. 

Family Record in Handwriting of Israel Angell . 186 

Original in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell. 

Eleazer Arnold House at Lincoln, R. I, . . 194 

Erected about 1687. 

Facsimile of Page of Letter Book, Barbers Heights 274 
Standard of the 2d Rhode Island Regiment . . 350 

Carried by Continental Line Regiment commanded by Colonel 
Angell and Colonel Olney, now deposited in the State House 
at Providence. 



Israel Angell 
Parti 



CHAPTER I 

ANCESTRY 

Forbears — Inherited Characteristics — Effect of Surroundings. 

Rhode Island, small in territory, but great in 
spirit, has given precedence to none concerning the 
worthiness of her sons or their devotion to our 
country at all times. Her early history shows in 
what a strict, hard school her children were developed 
and when we of these luxurious latter days read of her 
struggles, we pause involuntarily, in truest vener- 
ation, to do honor to the wise and brave settlers 
of this indomitable little State. The keen, just, 
courageous spirit of Roger Williams, who inaugurated 
the first settlement, dedicated to liberty of conscience 
has never left Rhode Island, which waxed strong 
through grievous chastenings borne in defense of her 
ideals. Rhode Island also bore the burden of un- 
provoked wars, and during the Revolution gave her 
sons lavishly, beyond her quota, for the cause of 
Liberty, — men of the highest caliber who, as 
Rochambeau wrote, "behaved with a zeal, a courage, 
an emulation, which left them in no case behind in 
all that part of the siege entrusted to them, in spite of 
their being unaccustomed to sieges." And of these 
same men Lord Chatham wrote to Sir William 



2 Ancestry 

Howe, "These whom you called cowards, poltroons, 
runaways, and knaves, are become victorious over 
your veteran troops," having previously praised 
the British troops as "the best appointed of any that 
ever took the field." Of such a character, a true 
patriot, high in the annals of Rhode Island, stands 
Israel Angell, whose power for stanch service to his 
country was a direct inheritance from his brave and 
independent forefathers. 

First of the name in New England was Thomas 
Angell, who reached here, probably on one of the 
ships which sailed from the Isle of Wight, May, 1629. 
He lived for some time in the family of Richard 
Waterman in Salem, for which reason he was called 
"Waterman's lad" by Roger Williams. Young 
Thomas, the only one of his name or family in these 
colonies, must have been of a rarely affectionate and 
dependable nature to have attracted the attention of 
such men as Waterman and Roger Williams, whose 
friendship greatly alleviated the natural loneli- 
ness of the youth whose near relatives were so far 
away. Some authorities contend that Thomas was 
also apprenticed to Williams, but, however that 
may be, it is certain that he was constantly in 
close touch with that energetic leader. One of the 
remarkable circumstances of Thomas Angell's life, 
was this intimate association with men of such 
standing as Richard Waterman, Thomas Olney, and 
Roger Williams, all many years his senior, — 
Waterman 25, Olney 15, and Williams 16 years 
older, and all holding more prominent and au- 



Forbears 3 

thoritative positions than himself in the affairs of 
the colonies. 

Association with Richard Waterman at Salem, 
who was not only a mighty hunter but also ' ' viewer of 
canoes," prepared Thomas Angell for the great 
adventure of his life, and, coupled with his own 
worthiness, made him a fit companion for Roger 
Williams when that indomitable man left Salem in 
search of a place wherein he could establish a center 
of freedom, religious and civic. So it happened that 
Thomas Angell was in the boat with Roger Williams 
when that momentous little journey was made down 
the Seekonk to the place where the city of Providence 
now stands. With what boyish enthusiasm must he 
have replied to the welcoming call, " What-cheer " ? 
sent out over the waters by the friendly sachem to 
the white men; how elated he must have been over 
such a propitious entrance to the land of their hopes, 
unknown wilderness though it was. 

Clear-headed he must have been, undaunted and 
tenacious of purpose, a colonist of merit, for, young 
as he was, the name of Thomas Angell appears among 
those granted land in 1637, and seventh among those 
of the 13 signers of the compact of 1638. It is also 
to be remarked that in Roger Williams's own ac- 
count of his journey to Providence, for the name of 
Thomas Angell he substitutes that "lad of Water- 
man's." 

These are the terms of the compact signed by 
Thomas Angell and others not yet heads of families : 
"We, whose names are hereunder, desirous to inhabit 



4 Ancestry 

in the town of Providence, do promise to subject 
ourselves in active or passive obedience to all such 
orders or agreements as shall be made for public 
good of our body, in an orderly way, by the major 
consent of the present inhabitants, masters of families 
incorporated together into a town fellowship, and 
others whom they shall admit unto them, only in 
civil things." 

Little as we know of Thomas Angell's ancestors, he 
had acknowledged social standing in the colony ; and, 
although throughout his life he always made his mark 
and never wrote his name, his civic importance was 
unquestioned, for again and again his name appears 
on serious documents relating to the laws and welfare 
of the growing settlement. In common with the 
rest of the first proprietors, Thomas received a six- 
acre house-lot. A part of this land honorably 
acquired from the Indians, as was Roger Williams's 
wont, remained in unbroken title in the Angell family 
for many generations. Angell Street and Thomas 
Street run along the boundaries of the land originally 
deeded to Thomas, on which the High School House 
and the First Baptist Church now stand. 

This meeting-house was erected in 1775 in an 
orchard formerly belonging to John Angell. Its 
spire is so tall as to be seen for many miles around. 
Governor John Drayton, of South Carolina, in his 
^'Letters," written after a visit to Rhode Island 
in 1798, mentions in his description of Providence 
that there is a " Baptist Church with one of the tallest 
and handsomest steeples in America. It is said to be 



Forbears 5 

220 feet high. The church is built of wood, and is 
elegantly finished in the inside, being illuminated at 
night by a superb glass chandelier." 

Thomas Angell married Alice Ashton, sister of 
Mary Ashton, wife of Thomas Olney. The wives of 
Angell and Olney were sisters of James Ashton, first 
mentioned in Providence in 1648, and daughters of 
James and Alice Ashton of St. Albans, Hertfordshire, 
England. The name of the younger Alice appears 
on the register of St. Albans Abbey as being baptized 
on the 1st February, 161 7-1 8. Presumably she 
came to this country with her sister, but no evidence 
has been found to that effect. 

Thomas Angell and his wife Alice had eight 
children, among them a daughter Amphyllis and a 
son Hope, — two very unusual names. This little 
girl was the only person in Rhode Island at that time, 
to be recorded under the quaint and beautiful name 
of Amphyllis, which, in due time, she passed on to one 
of her daughters. Another of her daughters, Alice, 
called a girl Amphyllis, and the first Amphillis' son, 
Christopher, also gave his mother's name to a daugh- 
ter. Thus the original AmphyUis had a daughter 
and two granddaughters bearing her name, and with 
these the appellation passes out of that branch of the 
Angell family. The name is rare as well as beauti- 
ful, and one which would only be used by people 
with a sense of family distinction. It is interest- 
ing to note that Amphyllis is found in the Wash- 
ington family and as both families were from 
Hertfordshire it is a pleasant thought that this 



6 Ancestry 

occurrence may have arisen from some affiliation 
with one another. 

Hope Angell was the seventh child of Thomas and 
Alice, and bore a name as unusual for a man as that 
of his sister Amphyllis for a woman. What ambi- 
tions, what aspirations, filled his parents' hearts 
when they gave him this name, we cannot tell, but it 
would seem as if the very spirit of the times was 
expressed therein, for the State had placed his inspir- 
ing word above the anchor of its seal, and each day 
brought more realizations of the colonists' dreams. 
Hope Angell died unmarried, but his brother, John, 
gave the name to his boy, whose son, Oliver, called a 
son Hope also. Then, after three generations, this 
name, as that of Amphyllis, ceased to be used in the 
Angell family. 

When the will of Thomas Angell was proved, i8th 
September, 1694, it was found that he had left what 
was for the time and place, a respectable estate, and 
that his wife and children were well provided for. 

His wife, Alice, survived him but a few months. 
During his life, Angell filled a number of the offices in 
the gift of his fellow townsmen, having been Com- 
missioner, Deputy, Constable, etc., and conducted 
himself in such a way as to avoid participation in the 
many controversies which at times disturbed the 
settlement, never being mentioned as a partisan, 
except in March, 1656/57, when he with certain other 
respectable inhabitants were "presented" by Roger 
Williams for being "ring-leaders in new divisions in 
the Colony." The charge was not pressed, and 



Forbears 7 

undoubtedly arose from the difference of opinion 
regarding the activities at this time of William 
Harris, who was accused of "high treason." 

The eldest son of Thomas Angell bore the plain 
name of John, and to him his father bequeathed a 
sixty-acre lot, from the parcel received in the first 
division, and adjoining this, a fifty-acre lot in the 
second division, all of which were in the western 
part of the town. Before his father's death, John 
had already acquired a tract of land adjacent to part 
of Thomas Angell's holdings, and on this property 
John's immediate descendants lived. He also added 
to his estate 130 acres situated on both sides of the 
Wanasquatucket River, three and a half miles from 
Providence Harbor. As his elder sons became 
settled, John Angell deeded to each, house and land, 
yet remained possessed of much acreage. Thus the 
Angells became a family of agriculturists, men of the 
wide places, and although continuously owning town 
property, they acquired, more and more, extensive 
farmlands, and always in advantageous sections, 
where the ground was favorable for their needs. 

In Providence, on the 7th January, 1669, John 
Angell married Ruth Field, daughter of John Field, 
one of the signers of the first compact of the settle- 
ment. John Angell was at one time Deputy, but 
held, as far as reqords show, no other prominent 
civic position. His claim on our interest, and to 
the homage due all brave and true men, is that during 
the terrible war of King Philip, he, like his brother 
James, was one of the men "who staid and went not 



8 Ancestry 

away" at the time when Providence was attacked, 
most of the people fleeing, and the greater part of the 
little city destroyed. Reported to have been "a 
man of enormous strength," John Angell must have 
seemed a veritable tower of defense against the 
savage cruelties of the enemy. Splendidly fearless, 
devoted to the cause of the people among whom his 
lot was cast, John Angell, with the rest of those brave 
colonists, stands out in the noble company of the 
world's heroes, intrepid and worthy of all trust. 

Hope Angell, fourth son of John, and named for 
his uncle, Hope Angell, lived on his farm, but his 
name is in the town records as being twice Deputy, 
and it is also found mentioned in connection with 
other positions of trust and honor. He married, 
22d May, 17 12, Lydia, daughter of Captain Thomas 
and Lydia (Barnes) Olney, thus allying himself with 
one of the most prominent families of that day. 
Besides developing his large farm, Hope Angell was 
also owner of a cooperage business. The word 
"shop," in those times, denoted a building devoted 
to manufacture, as well as in the sense of store or 
sales shop; so Angell's "cooper's shop" meant a 
structure where a prosperous manufacturing business 
was carried on; and this trade was continued in the 
Angell family, from father to son, for three 
generations. 

Oliver Angell, second son of Hope Angell, lived 
on the homestead, and continued the cooperage 
business. He also taught his four sons the use of 
carpenter's and blacksmith's tools, and instructed 



Inherited Characteristics 9 

them thoroughly in the knowledge of farming. His 
instinct to do all that was possible for his children 
must have been a strong factor in his life, for it led 
him to lay out a family burying ground on the 
home-lot, showing that he held his children and their 
children's children near and dear even in death. This 
burying ground is still preserved. 

In Providence, on the 13th June, 1740, Oliver 
Angell and Naomi, daughter of Israel and Elizabeth 
Smith, were married by the Reverend Josiah Cotton. 
Naomi and Oliver must have been at one concerning 
the upbringing of their children, for while he trained 
them in the affairs of the farm, and prepared them for 
making their way in the world as best they could, she 
brought them up to be strictly obedient, devoting 
much attention to their education, instructing them 
to the limit of her unusual ability, and encouraging 
them to read at all times possible. Naomi Angell is 
described as a small, alert woman with remarkably 
keen black eyes, — eyes that probably saw not only 
all that passed before her, but were windows through 
which her soul, alive to the future, gazed far beyond 
the affairs of the moment, to the successes her heart 
hoped to find in the manhood and womanhood of her 
children. She had the satisfaction of knowing that 
her boys and girls were all unusually intelligent. 

Such were the ancestors of Israel Angell, eldest 
son of Oliver and Naomi Angell, and we find in him a 
valiant gentleman, a worthy patriot. And how 
could he be otherwise? Did he not gain from 
Thomas Angell the intelligence, the dependability. 



10 Ancestry 

the kindly disposition, that made this early colonist a 
friend of the best men in his community, and brought 
him not only the respect of his fellow-townsmen, but 
the affection of such a man as Roger Williams, who 
as late as 1677, when Thomas was over fifty years 
of age, still spoke of him as that "lad of Water- 
man's"? And from Alice Ashton, wife of Thomas 
Angell, there must have been transmitted to her 
descendants a certain power for initiative, an extra- 
ordinary courage in facing the unknown, that caused 
her, a young untried girl, to join her sister in that 
venturesome voyage to the New World. With other 
colonist wives, this Alice stands out before the world 
a brave and determined figure full of hope and fear- 
lessness, — characteristics of high value for coming 
generations. 

John Angell's chief bequest to his descendants was 
not the property he left, nor the love he showed when 
he presented his sons, during his own lifetime, with 
houses and lands "deeded for good affection," but 
in the stirring memory they have of his intrepid 
stanchness, his unshaken courage, when he remained 
to protect the stricken people against Indian attack. 
Well might Israel Angell be strong and determined — 
he had every right so to be ! Quieter, yet basic traits, 
descended from Israel's grandfather, Hope Angell, — 
the love of outdoors, interest in the farm, a strong 
sense of justice, for Hope Angell bore the reputation 
of being a man of equity. From his maternal ances- 
tors there came to Israel a certain alertness of mind 
for which he was always remarkable. His mother's 



Effect of Surroundings n 

great-grandfather was that John Smith "the Miller," 
one of the five first associates of Roger WiUiams. 

In 1646, at a Monthly Court meeting, "It was 
agreed that John Smith shall have the Value, where- 
on his house stans in case he set up a Mill as also 
Excepting sufficient high waies," and after his death 
contracted with his widow and son, his successor, 
that no other mill should be erected. 

In the next generation the appellation of John 
Smith "the Miller" carried with it distinction and 
honor, for he was also one "who staid and went not 
away" during the terrors of King Philip's war. His 
dependabiHty and unusual presence of mind were 
markedly shown at the time his house was burned 
by the Indians. Seizing the Town Records, which 
were in his custody as town clerk, he threw them into 
the mill-pond, from which they were later rescued. 
Thus by his quick wit, the precious documents 
were, as Roger Williams thankfully expressed it, 
"saved by God's merciful Providence from fire and 
water." 

Perhaps the greatest gift Israel Angell's own 
parents passed on to him was the power for obedi- 
ence, which gave him authority over himself, and 
therefore over other men. In the veins of Israel 
Angell ran the blood of those that had overcome. 
He was descended from "them that came up at the 
first," and was to prove himself capable of carrying 
on to a worthy conclusion their endeavors to 
achieve freedom and the right to happiness. 



CHAPTER II 

OUTLINE OF LIFE 

Where bom — Boyhood — Chief influences — Army life — Later days — 

Death. 

In an old Bible found in a cellar in Providence, 
where it had lain for many years, almost destroyed 
by mold and decay, is found the following entry : 

Memorandum of the birth, age, and death 

of my honored parents, Oliver and 

Naomi Angell. 

Oliver Angell, bom March 3, a.d. 1717. 

Naomi Angell, bom Oct. 28, a.d. 1719. 

Israel, their oldest son born on Wednesday 
the 13th of August old style, which is 
the 24th new style in the year of our 
Lord, 1740. 

These, with other entries, are in Israel Angell's 
own handwriting. 

Born on his father's farm, land inherited from his 
great-grandfather, situated in what is now known as 
North Providence, Israel Angell lived the healthful 
life of all sturdy country lads, but was taught more 
than the ordinary boy of his time, for his father not 

12 



Boyhood 13 

only instructed his sons in the use of blacksmith's 
and carpenter's tools, which they learned to make 
as well as use, and in the cooper's trade, which was 
a business inherited from their grandfather, Hope 
Angell, but all four boys became expert workers 
in wood, as Oliver Angell owned half of a saw-mill, 
and the forest-covered hills on his estate were a 
source of considerable income. All of this experience 
was of invaluable service to Israel during the troub- 
lous days of the Revolution when a man had need 
of all he had and all he knew to wrest victory from 
the veteran troops of England. 

Reversing the usual order of the saying, and from 
the inclination of the tree judging of the direction 
that the twig was bent, we can fairly accurately 
imagine Israel Angell' s boyhood. For as the older 
Israel loved all of Nature's wonders, from the glories 
of the stars to the marvels of the wayside flowers, so 
the younger Israel must have observed and pondered 
over the miracles of field and forest. That fine out- 
of-door life gave him the strength of body that later 
stood him in such good stead, and the knowledge 
he acquired assisted him greatly in directing his men 
during long marches through distant parts of the 
country while his experience in the use of tools made 
him capable of directing successfully the building of 
huts and shelters for his regiment, when materials 
were scarce, and clever invention essential. A man 
used to the woods could efficiently direct the hewing 
of logs for the rough cabins used by the soldiery, and 
could also instruct them in the quickest way to pro- 



14 Outline of Life 

ceed with the "hutting" as the building of these 
shelters was called. The huts were only high 
enough to "allow a soldier to enter erect under the 
upper course. The roofs were made of rough clap- 
boards split out of the forest. Places were sawed 
through the logs for a window and a door in each 
cabin, into which were placed rude clapboard doors 
and shutters with wooden hinges and latches. In 
one end of the cabin a rough stone fireplace was 
thrown up, surmounted by a plastered log chimney 
rising but a few inches above the roof. Along the 
sides of the structure bunks were erected with clap- 
boards, resting upon timbers driven into the ground. 
These sleeping places accommodated ten or twelve 
soldiers, and were filled with straw. The spaces 
between the logs being chinked with pieces of wood 
and mud, shelter was obtained in a good degree from 
the force of the wind and the pelting of rain and 
snow. Rough wooden benches, made of timber cut 
out of the woods, answered for seats, and fires were 
kept burning in the fireplaces. These rough and 
simple features constituted the sum of their furniture 
and conveniences."' In the rear of the huts of the 
privates, were those of the officers. 

It is said that before her marriage, Naomi Angell, 
mother of Israel, was a school teacher. If that were 
true, she was probably the head of what was known 
as a "Dame's School," where the children of a 
neighborhood were gathered for such primary in- 
struction as a young woman of those almost bookless 

' Battle Hill and Madison, by W. P. Tuttle. 



Chief Influences 15 

days could command. Scanty as was the equipment 
of those schoolrooms, limited as was the learning 
imparted, it was sufficient to start men and women 
into the world, where Experience completed their 
education, and caused them to leave to their de- 
scendants names that are to-day an inspiration. On 
the freshly sanded floor, taking the place of a horn- 
book, the young teacher, with a long rod, traced out 
letters and words to be copied on the children's 
slates, or marked out sums that doubtless puzzled 
many a little head. It was not as easy or as simple 
as the blackboard, but that sanded floor probably 
accomplished its purpose just as well as the modern 
method, for then, as now, he that would be learned, 
learned; and he that would be stupid, slipped along! 
Among the chief studies of the curriculum of that 
day, was good manners, and no occasion was per- 
mitted to pass that would emphasize the importance 
of courtesy. Did the father of some scholar enter 
the school to give the teacher a word of encourage- 
ment and the children a genial greeting? Instantly 
all were on their feet, and bows and courtesies were 
promptly made on every hand. Were the hoof- 
beats of a coming rider heard by the quick ears of the 
children? Immediately there was a flocking to 
the door, and as the boys and girls stood out in the 
flecked sunshine to watch the horseman as he 
galloped by, the voice of the teacher called out after 
them, ' ' Make your manners ! Do not forget to make 
your manners!" as she, too, ran out to look after 
steed and rider until both disappeared in the woods 



i6 Outline of Life 

farther on. To-day, whizzing motorists rarely see 
children at play, much less receive their respectful 
salutations, and teachers seldom attempt to instruct 
their scholars to "make their manners," — other days, 
other ways, — who shall say which are the better? 
A natural desire for knowledge prompted Israel 
Angell to learn from all sources possible, and an 
exceedingly retentive memory served him well, 
for, as a man, he bore the reputation of being a 
gentleman of learning, interested in literature and 
science, particularly that of astronomy. 

That Israel Angell possessed an attractive person- 
ality as well as intellectual powers, is proved by the 
fact that he was married three times. His first wife 
was Martha Angell, his second cousin, daughter of 
Stephen Angell, of Johnston. This marriage took 
place on the 20th February, 1765. Israel owned a 
farm in Johnston ; here his eleven children were born, 
and his family life reputed to be a very happy one. 
In the Providence daily paper of those times, the 
death of Martha, i6th March, 1793, is thus recorded: 

On Sunday, the i6th instant, departed this Life, at 
Johnston, in the 47th Year of her Age, Mrs. Martha 
Angell, the amiable Comfort of Col. Israel Angell, of 
that Town; and on Tuesday following her Remains 
were decently interred. She possessed the social 
Virtues in an eminent degree ; and having with great 
Patience and Fortitude borne a long and distressing 
illness, met the cruel Messenger of Death with Calm- 
ness and Composure, and left the World in Peace. 



Chief Influences 17 

His second wife was a widow, Susannah Wright, 
daughter of an old family friend, Consider Luther; 
and from this marriage there were six children. 
The third wife of Israel Angell was also a widow, 
Sarah Angell, her first husband being a distant re- 
lative, Richard Angell, and she herself a daughter of 
David Wood. There were no children by this 
marriage. That the years had touched him very 
lightly, that his heart kept ever young, and that his 
interest in life was undiminished is shown by the 
fact that at the age of ninety-one, Israel Angell was 
courting her whom he would have made his fourth 
wife; but he died at ninety-two before the marriage 
took place. An unusual love of home life is empha- 
sized by this circumstance, a great independence 
and an unflagging readiness to assume responsibility, 
for, even at that advanced age, Israel Angell pre- 
ferred to be head of his own household rather than an 
inmate in the home of one of his children. 

One would naturally assume that a man of such 
strong mentality must have decided views on religion, 
a subject of unending discussion in his day, but very 
little is recorded of Israel Angell's religious beliefs. 
His letters to his family unmistakably indicate a 
reverence for the Divine, the name of the Deity being 
always written in capitals, — thus, GOD. His spirit- 
ual and moral attitude is clearly seen in the following 
letter to his son, dated Johnston, i8th June, 1797, 
when he was lamenting the arrival of some undesir- 
able people who had taken the place of good neigh- 
bors, recently emigrated to New York State. The 



i8 Outline of Life 

newcomers were causing much distiu'bance, and he 
writes : 

It is almost impossible for any person to see their 
own failings, and often condemn their neighbors for 
less faults than they are guilty of themselves. For 
my own part I find sufficient business enough in my 
own family to watch over my own conduct without 
inspecting into my neighbors, as I wish to live up to 
that Golden Rule of doing by all as I would wish 
them to do by me, which I hope with Divine assist- 
ance to effect. 

The town of Johnston, originally a part of the city 
of Providence, was set up under separate government 
in 1759. At that time all males between sixteen and 
sixty were enrolled in the militia, company and 
regimental drills taking place on stated occasions, 
although the administration of the militia law was 
lax, and the training that the men received of no value 
whatsoever. Training day was more like a country 
fair, given over to rough play, drinking, and like 
amusements, during which the men were mustered, 
executed a few simple maneuvers, discharged their 
pieces, and perhaps took part in a sham fight. But 
there were some men who sensed the necessity for 
preparedness, and realized how valueless the militia 
trainings had become. Such men when relations 
with King and Parliament became strained organized 
themselves in independent companies, which met as 
frequently as opportunity afforded, and drilled with 



Army Life 19 

earnestness. Among these organizations were the 
Kentish Guards, of Kent County, the Train of 
Artillery in Providence, the North Providence 
Rangers, and not behind in enthusiasm was the 
company in Johnston of which Israel Angell was 
commander. In June, 1769, being then in his 
twenty-ninth year, Israel was made Lieutenant of 
this company, and in 1774 became Captain. His 
temperament demanded order and efficiency in 
everything he undertook. In the Army, in later 
years, he had the reputation of being an excellent 
disciplinarian and of enforcing respect and obedience, 
therefore it is probable that when an officer in the 
Johnston militia company, these traits asserted 
themselves, and that the company gained great bene- 
fit under his command. Proof of his ability to enlist 
and handle men, and also of his intensely patriotic 
sentiments, is found in the fact that he, a captain of a 
militia company, was chosen as one of the field 
officers of the Providence County Regiment, and 
commissioned Major in the Army of Observation, 8th 
May, 1775. All of the other field officers of the three 
regiments or battalions were men of character well 
known in the colony, and, like Greene, Vamum, 
and Hitchcock, not only had special qualifications, 
but were not without influence in the General 
Assembly that appointed them. 

During the Revolutionary War, Israel Angell was 
promoted to the rank of Colonel, and was in com- 
mand of the Second Rhode Island Regiment. He 
retired from the Army in 1781, being at that time 



20 Outline of Life 

forty-four years of age. In his Diary, under date of 
the 25th March, 1781, we find the following laconic 
entry: 

Clear and Cold. My waggon Come up this Morn- 
ing after breakfast. I set forward after having hired 
Capt. Bacon to help me on as far as Dorrances in 
VoUentown where I arrived and Dined then went on 
to my own hous, found my family well. Left my 
waggon to come on as fast as possible, and thus 
Eands the Service with me. 

Colonel Angell was one of the original members of 
the Rhode Island Society of the Cincinnati. This 
grand Order was established in 1783.' It is the 
oldest of the patriotic heredity societies in the 
United States. All officers who had served three 
years in that capacity with Continental forces, even 
though no longer in the service, if honorably dis- 
charged or deranged, were eligible. Membership^ 

' A paper dated at West Point, 15 April, 1 783, containing proposals 
for the formation of the Order was circulated throughout the army 
encamped on the Hudson. A caucus, presided over by Major 
General Baron von Steuben, then Inspector General of the Army, was 
held near New Windsor, 13 May, 1783, at which were present line 
and staflF officers from the organizations in the vicinity. The original 
membership consisted not only of those officers then with the army 
who signed the Constitution at the first meeting, but officers who 
subscribed papers which were immediately circulated through the 
various states. 

* A feature which led to criticism of the society was the provision 
permitting original members to be succeeded by their eldest male 
representative. This to the minds of many was equivalent to setting 
up an hereditary order of nobility, and led several states to place a 
ban upon the Order. The first general convention was held at Inde- 
pendence Hall in Philadelphia, May, 1784, and to this meeting the 
various state societies were requested to send delegates. 





w c 



O j 

2 ■ 

'S ^ 



Army Life 21 

in the Order was highly valued, and its insignia worn 
upon all formal occasions. 

Lafayette took an especial interest in the formation 
of the Order. A branch was established in France, 
the rolls of which contain many distinguished names. 
Admiral Count d'Estaing was president, and in 1784 
sent to General Washington, the first President Gen- 
eral of the Order, the eagle of the Order set in dia- 
monds. This has been worn in succession by each 
President General. 

The eagle ^ of the Order was in due course sent to 
Colonel Angell, and has passed to the eldest male 
representative in turn, and now is in possession of 
Mr. H. I. Angell. It is mentioned in the inventory 
of the estate of Colonel Angell taken after his decease. 
It is pictured upon the opposite page. 

During the lifetime of the original members 
resident in Rhode Island the meetings of the state 
society were held on the Fourth of July, either at 
Providence or Newport.^ The Rhode Island So- 



' The first eagles, as the medals of the Order are styled, were 
made in France being struck from a die carved from the design of 
Major L'Enfant. The ribbon of the Order is blue edged with white, 
emblematic of the United States and France. 

' The last recorded meeting of the State society until its revival im 
December, 1877, was held 4th July, 1835, although three years 
previously, in consideration of popular feeling, the members present 
at the annual meeting had voted to surrender the Charter, which 
however, was revived 26th March, 1878. In 1802 the by-laws of 
the society were printed with a list of original members, and of those 
who had subsequently been admitted. The name of Israel Angell 
appears among the original members. On the 25th February, 1797, 
an address was presented by the Rhode Island Society to Washington 
whose term of office as President of the United States expired the 
following week. 



22 Outline of Life 

ciety was incorporated by the State, 28th December, 
1814. 

Upon retiring from military life, Colonel Angell 
returned to his home in Johnston, where he continued 
the hereditary cooperage business, carried on the 
affairs of his farm, and attended to the welfare and 
education of his family. Several of his children and 
relatives emigrated from Rhode Island to Chenango 
County, New York State, and in later life Colonel 
Angell visited them, making the long journey on 
horseback. 

The assertion that Colonel Angell, after he became 
once more a private citizen, kept a tavern is a fiction 
originating of late years. The famous Angell Tavern 
set up in 17 10, by Thomas Angell (great uncle of 
Israel), was maintained in 1783 by Andrew Angell, 
grandson of the original proprietor, having descended 
from father to son. None of Israel Angell's imme- 
diate branch of the family were tavern keepers, 
although several of the name kept houses of public 
entertainment, and kept them respectably and 
successfully. About this time, Colonel Thomas 
Angell,^ a distant relative, was licensed to keep a 
tavern, in Johnston, so the misunderstanding above 
alluded to, is not unnatural. The Angell Tavern, in 
distinction to the many others that appeared later, 
was built in Scituate, 12^ miles west of Providence, 
on the Norwich Road. The town of Scituate held 
Town Meetings in this house, and it was a place of 
attraction for a long period. During Andrew 

' Colonel in militia. 



Later Days 23 

Angell's time, the Tavern was financially successful 
and extremely popular. He owned a large farm of 
412 acres, which was well managed, containing a 
large garden and a fine poultry yard, all of which 
greatly increased his trade. The poor were never 
sent away hungry, but, if able to work, could earn 
their food by labor on the farm, as long as they chose 
so to do. During the Revolutionary War, Lafayette 
and his officers encamped with his troops at this 
Tavern. His men were quartered in tents on the 
opposite side of the road. All were treated with 
much consideration and kindness. Later, when 
General Lafayette traversed this same road again, he 
paused in Scituate and made inquiries for the land- 
lord and lady who had so hospitably entertained him. 
General Washington also was a guest of Andrew An- 
gell, and Dr. Benjamin Franklin also stopped there. 
So far as is known, Israel Angell occupied few 
civic positions, and those were of only lesser impor- 
tance. He was for several years Justice of the Peace, 
at another time, 1782, was appointed to have charge 
of the Highway District in which he lived, and in 
1793, his name appears as one of the Town Council 
which was also a Probate Court. That he was, 
however, a man whose clear judgment could be 
depended upon, is seen by the instances we have of 
his being chosen to determine certain matters as, for 
instance, when there was a dispute concerning the 
rank of Lieutenant Thomas Waterman of Colonel 
Angell's regiment, and a Lieutenant in Colonel 
Webb's regiment, — "Lieutenant Waterman was 



24 Outline of Life 

ordered to Consider himself under arrest — ^but they 
concluded to leave the matter to me — " ; again, when 
there was a serious controversy between Major 
General Baron Steuben and Colonel Hazen, Israel 
Angell was one of those appointed to decide upon 
the rights of the affair, which, after one or two 
meetings, was settled "to the Satisfaction of both 
Parties."^ The greatest recognition of his ability to 
decide matters justly, and of his high reputation 
throughout the Army, was Colonel Angell's appoint- 
ment by General Washington as one of the judges in 
the Court Martial during which General Lee was 
arraigned, tried, and found guilty. Twelve men sat 
in this court, which was presided over by General 
Lord Sterling, four of whom were Brigadier Generals, 
and eight were Colonels. To be chosen as one of 
these judges was a signal honor and mark of appreci- 
ation which must have been a lifetime satisfaction 
to Israel Angell. 

Always an owner of considerable property, Israel 
Angell understood the value of land, and probably for 
that reason, was one of a commission of three chosen 
by the interested parties, — the others being Captains 
William Tew and Coggeshall Olney — to go to Conani- 

' "September ig""- 1780. I was appointed a member to settle a 
dispute between Baron Stuben and Col. Hazen. The dispute was 
left to the seven oldest officers commanding the seven lines from the 
seven states here in service, New Hampshire Col. Cilley, Massachu- 
setts, Gen. Glover, Rhode Island, Col. Angell, Connecticut, Gen. 
Parsons, New York, Gen. Clinton, New Jersery, Col. Dajrton, 
Pennsylvania, Gen. St. Clair." — Diary. The dispute apparently 
was a question of veracity, or more probably from Hazen's misunder- 
standing orders. 



Later Days 25 

cut and dispose of at auction or private sale, as they 
might think best, certain lands which the General 
Assembly had set aside to discharge the balances due 
to the officers of his regiment. This occurred just 
before Colonel Angell left the Army. 

After his retirement, his interest in military matters 
did not cease . Under the militia law, there was formed 
in the militia a "Senior Class," and for eleven years 
[ 1 783-1 794] Israel Angell was captain of a "Senior Class 
Company in the Regiment for Providence County." 

A certain restlessness of spirit is evident in several 
of his letters, after Colonel Angell's return to private 
life, and his constructive mind was attracted by some 
proposed ventures in new settlements. He wrote 
regretfully to his children in New York State that he 
was unable to join them in their country, where the 
land owned by him in the Mohawk Valley always 
seemed to him very desirable. He, at one time, held 
considerable acreage in Vermont, being a proprietor 
in the grant now incorporated as the town of Lyn- 
don, ^ and was interested in the Ohio Company, in 
which he became a share-holder.^ He made a 

' Dr. Jonathan Arnold having associated with himself twenty -four 
officers of the Rhode Island line, and others to the number of fifty- 
three obtained from the Governor and Council of Vermont a grant of 
a township, 2d November, 1780. This company was known as the 
Proprietors of Lyndon. Line officers were required to pay £7 for 
each right, others £8-10, and each proprietor was required to plant 
and cultivate five acres and erect a dwelling within four years after 
the circumstances of the War would permit. Several families from 
Rhode Island settled upon the grant. Daniel Cahoone, Jr., was 
the first settler, in 1788, and the town was organized, 1791. Prior 
to its grant to Arnold, the territory was known as Bestbury. 

' Colonel Angell originally held three shares in the Ohio Company, 



26 Outline of Life 

journey to Marietta in 1788, and at least one to his 
purchase in Herkimer County/ N. Y., in 1805; but 
none of these investments resulted successfully, and 
he never removed from Rhode Island. 

In politics, Israel Angell was a strong Federalist, 
and at the time of the second War with England, he 
writes, under date of i6th October, 1813, to his 
children in New York, bemoaning the fact that 
"two of my loving children are led away by French 
intrigue and subtlety to support the Madisonian 
War, the greatest curse that ever befel this country or 
any other." 

In the later years of his life, Colonel Angell moved 
to the neighboring town of Smithfield, which was the 

formed in 1787, composed chiefly of men formerly in the army, whose 
land bounty rights and pay script was accepted for the greater part 
of their subscription to shares. No one could have more than three 
shares. The Company obtained a grant of the Ohio lands from 
Congress payable in national securities, thus enabling the Company 
to utilize what was received for shares, at the same time helping to 
restore the credit of the National treasury. In 1788 the Rhode Island 
"faction " was troublesome in the aflFairs of the Company, apparently 
dominated by General Vamum, who went to Ohio and died there. 
Colonel Angell was probably at the meetings held in March, 1788, at 
Rice's Tavern, Providence, at which a drawing of lots on the Muskin- 
gum was made. Land grants were made by the National Govern- 
ment to Colonel Angell, May, 1792, in all for 1200 acres, of which 
three hundred were registered 22 April, 1796, and the remainder in 
February, 1800. 

' The land owned by Colonel Angell in Herkimer County, was in 
Norway township, being lot 76, and was purchased from Joseph 
Nightingale, Nicholas Brown, and Thomas P. Ives by John Whipple 
of Providence, from whom it passed to Angell. The latter sold one 
half to William B. Smith, September, 18 17, and the remainder to the 
same purchaser February, 1823. Herkimer Deeds, 12:476, and 
21 :i04. In November, 1798, Colonel Angell had sold to John Whip- 
ple 90 acres and his dwelling house in Johnston. — Johnston Deeds, 
2:293. 



Death 27 

home of his third wife, and there he died, 3d May, 
1832, in his ninety-second year. He was buried 
in the family graveyard in Johnston, on the South 
Scituate Road. ^ 

"There is a life that is worth living now, as it was 
worth living in the former days, and that is the 
honest life, the useful life, the unselfish life, cleansed 
by devotion to an ideal. There is a battle that is 
worth fighting now, as it was worth fighting then, 
and that is the battle for justice and equality. "^ 

'"Died. In Smithfield, on Thursday, Colonel Israel Angell, in 
the ninety-second year of his age. He was an officer in the war of 
Independence, and of him it may truly be said that he was a hero of 
the Revolution, and as fearless and brave a man as ever faced an 
enemy. His funeral will be solemnised from his late residence, to- 
morrow at II o'clock, A. M." — Providence Daily Journal, Saturday, 
May 5th, 1832. 

* Van Dyke: The Americanism of Washington. 



CHAPTER III 

THE MAN 

As the Head of his Family — As a Member of Society — ^As a Citizen — 
As a Friend. 

In the letters that Israel Angell wrote to his family, 
he shows himself to be a man of deep affection toward 
his own people; with great interest in their affairs, 
unceasing parental watchfulness concerning things 
moral and spiritual, and as repeatedly yearning to 
hear from his children on all possible occasions. 
Letters were very precious in those days, and were 
carried by trusted travelers even more frequently 
than by the slow and expensive mail. When, at one 
period, six families, all related to Colonel Angell, 
emigrated from Providence and thereabout to New 
York State it seemed to the stayers at home that 
those enterprising ones were wandering very far 
afield. Israel Angell often wrote of "your country" 
and of "our country," making a distinction almost as 
radical as if between nations; and expressing his 
impressions of those new settlements as of ventures 
into a land that was almost a wilderness. A letter to 
one of his daughters is thus quaintly addressed, — 
"To 

Mrs. Naomi Hinkley, 
Town of Unedilla in the 
Country of New York." 
28 



As the Head of His Family 29 

In a letter to one of his sons, Colonel Angell, 
addressing him with a courteous consideration rare 
in these days, writes words of kindly admonition, — 

And now my Son once more permit me to remind 
you of bad Company & bad language, as good words 
cost no more than bad and will certainly make a 
man appear more like a Gentleman among all Classes 
of people that a Rational being would wish to 
Associate with, and in the End give that peace and 
Ease of mind & Conscience that far surpasses what I 
can with pen Express. 

There follows in this letter, and occurs frequently 
in others, an anxious inquiry as to the loved ones so 
far away, an inquiry more necessary then than now, 
for in those days of exposure, poor sanitation, and 
sometimes improper, insufficient food, that dread 
disease, tuberculosis of the lungs, was taking toll 
from many victims. Often, month after month 
might pass before information concerning matters 
of life or death would reach members of a family 
living far apart, and therefore anxious hearts became 
the rule rather than the exception. We, to whom 
the telephone seems slow in days of trouble or sus- 
pension, will read with understanding and sym- 
pathy Israel Angell's further words: 

It is a long time Since I heard from you. Must 
request you not to omit the first Opportunity of 
writing me how you & family do, what for a winter 
and Spring you have had, what prospects your 



30 The Man 

Affairs are at present, and whether it is a general time 
of health in your part of the world. As I have wrote 
you before the winter with us was as cold as ever 
known, & the Spring Do. . . The Inhabitants 
here are daily falling a Sacrifice to that raging Dis- 
order that prevails Predominant in this part of the 
Globe (viz) the Consumption. Stephen Sheldon's 
family seems to be all gone & going, his wife and one 
Daughter has been buried Since I wrote you. Seth 
Harrises Widow that was, was buried the week past. 
She has one sister more just gone with that disorder. 
Your Sister Patty I fear is going soon after her 
Sister Betsy having been in a poor State of Health 
ever Since her Sister's Death. ... So Conclude 
with my love to you & family hoping that through 
the Blessing of GOD you Enjoy a State of Health. 
Your most Affectionate father, 

Israel Angell. 

All the letters end with messages of affection, and 
at times with postscripts to certain especially be- 
loved persons, as for instance, these words to his 
son's little boy : 

N.B. I Remember my love in particular to My 
little Grandson Dexter, and tell him that his poor 
old Grandaddy intends (GOD willing) to Come 
& see him before one year to an End. I. A. 

Every once in a while the children creep into these 
letters, showing an unceasing interest and devotion 
to them. It is a proud father that writes : 



As the Head of His Family 31 

Stephen has grown finely latterly. Oliver and 
Luther have been weighed to-day with only their 
Shirt Jacket and Trousers on. Oliver wd. 481b., 
Luther 391b. ! ! ! 

And a sad heart that records : 

My little Grand Daughter Patty Angell Deceased 
25 April. If she had lived untill the 5th Day of June 
would have been 11 years old. Age 10 years 10 
months and 10 days. 

The wish to be with his children, to observe with 
his own eyes how their affairs progressed, and to 
welcome such grandchildren as he had not yet seen, 
caused Colonel Angell to make a trip into Chenango 
County, N. Y., in 1805 which was his sixty-fifth year. 
The long journey, 261 miles, was made in company 
with his cousin, Enos Angell, and entirely on horse- 
back. The going was good and bad, the taverns fair 
and indiffent, the weather rainy and sunny — such 
fortune as falls to all travelers in all times, and was 
met, according to Colonel Angell's diary, with interest 
and philosophy, as became veterans in life's experi- 
ences. He remarks on the scenery, the fine new turn- 
pikes, the friends encountered in various places, and 
writes in detail concerning certain farms he inspected, 
which he appraised with a keen eye to the proper 
lie of the land and to the water advantages, as is 
shown, for instance, in this entry about a "lot of 
land" that he himself owned: 



32 The Man 

15th. A clear Morning & cold. Mr. Stely & 
myself went over the whole Lot this morning & a 
finer Lot of Land perhaps no Man ever saw. It 
is as well Watered as any Land can be with two 
living Brooks and a number of Springs, one of which 
is more than common beautiful and large. 

The agriculturist was uppermost in Israel Angell's 
character during this trip, and national affairs re- 
ceded into the background before the importance 
of such facts as "my son Asa had got him a new 
house nearly ready to move into," also a barn, 
"every part of it filled as full as possible with Hay 
Wheat Rye & Flax," and that on Asa's farm, every 
portion of which was visited, the white pine timber 
"far exceeded any I have seen in the Country. We 
measured 2 that were fallen. One measured 161 
feet the other 168." 

Dynasties might come and go, but what more 
vital to a father's heart than the fact that "I spent 
the Day at my Son's (Israel), who has got a hand- 
some settlement worth 2000 dollars" ! The record 
of those days is full of items concerning meetings 
with old friends, as well as various members of 
Colonel Angell's family, and of detailed mention of 
their successful farming. ". . . went to Na- 
thaniel Medbury's, there put up our horses, and 
went a Cross Lotts to Benjamin Medbury's who was 
building him a large new house." One wonders, 
parenthetically, if this larger home contained a 
sufficient number of rooms to deserve their being 



'*-,>^Ss«i»fiia(i^s,,. 




i. ^<^Mt -r^-^J^- -w-^^ ^^., .J, ,. 



'1 
10 







/ i 5^ i/*^'^ ^^^'-'^ ^*~^ x'mUjLri ! 



'*' , . <^ J^J V'f.'lj Jtv'-^ xtrt^. 






Itinerary of Journey to Chenango County 



As the Head of His Family 33 

listed as were, 171 1, those of James Angell, whose 
dwelHng, was quaintly described as including, be- 
sides other apartments, an "outermost room, eastern- 
most lower bedroom, westernmost lower bedroom, 
and leanto chamber." Whatever the actual size 
of Benjamin Medbury's house, his being able to 
build one shows him prosperous, all of which is cor- 
roborated by Colonel Angell's statements, which 
continue as follows, — "His farm produced him the 
Season past about 40 tons of Hay 200 Bushels 
English Grain & 200 Bushels Corn. Nathaniel & 
Stephen Medbury farms each about the same quan- 
tity. Benjamin Medbury had made about 1200 lbs. 
Cheese the season past." No success on the Stock 
Exchange could ever be as worthy of note as these 
simple triumphs of hard work in those early days, 
when the comforts of life depended chiefly upon the 
return Nature could be induced to make for man's 
efforts at cultivation. Sometimes Nature was also 
held up at the end of a gun, as is seen in the en try- 
that follows : 

Nathaniel Medbury Shot a Large Buck supposed 
to weigh 4olb. per quarter, a little more than 100 
rods from James Lewis'. We tarried with Asa. 
The hounds drove a large Buck off the mountains 
into the river, by Asa's window, where Vail's son 
shot at him but missed him. 

The James Lewis alluded to was Israel Angell's 
son-in-law, husband of his daughter Martha, who 
was generally called "Patty." Lewis was devoted 



34 The Man 

to the chase, and was known in his neighborhood as 
' ' the hunting Squire . ' ' 

During later years, Israel Angell's desire to see his 
children and to be in communication with them be- 
came even stronger than in earlier life, and in his 
eighty-fifth year, shortly after the death of his wife, 
Sarah, he wrote, quite pathetically, a letter addressed 
to all those of his family then settled in Chenango 
County, N. Y. His recent bereavement doubtless 
emphasized the uncertainty of life, and caused him 
to crave the expression of all the affection that re- 
mained to him, so he says, — 

I now request the favour of you one and all, my 
Children, to write to me as often as you have an 
opportunity, as it is in no way likely I shall ever see 
you any more, unless you could find it convenient 
to come & see me, which would greatly rejoice your 
poor old wornout Parent whose unceasing prayers 
and wishes are for your Health and Prosperity, and 
may GOD of his unbounded Goodness and Mercy 
grant you happiness here and Hereafter, Amen. 
I have one more favour to ask of you, that is to 
send me as soon as possible the Number of my 
Grand Children and Great Grand Children now 
living and how many Deceased, and send the same 
by the post if no other Opportunity offers. 

My children here All Remember their love to you 
one and all. 

I am your Most Affectionate and loving Parent 

Israel Angell. 



As a Member of Society 35 

Remembering love, when writing to those at a dis- 
tance, seems a pecuHarly affectionate and sincere 
way of expressing a message to a person one cares 
for. Of course, it was a mode of the day, just as 
we now "send love" in closing a letter in these days. 
But the quaint words "He remembers his love to 
you" seems to hold the idea of thoughtfulness, of 
pleasure in that thoughtfulness, and of time to dwell 
upon it; while our expression, "He sends his love" 
gives almost an expression of having received some- 
thing hurriedly done up in a package and delivered 
by the first convenient carrier. This may be an 
exaggeration, nevertheless it is interesting to remark 
upon ways of speech, which tell us so much of the 
ways of thought in the times during which they were 
current. Israel Angell always "remembered" his 
love to his family, and always took pleasure in meet- 
ing and in being with them, particularly when con- 
stant military duty kept him absent for long periods. 
In his diaries is found constant mention of "being at 
my house to-day , " " shall reach my house to-morrow, ' ' 
etc., and he also notes the occasions when he was 
able to meet members of his family other than his 
wife and children, as, for instance, in the entry of 
the I2th of January, 1779: 

A clowdy Raw Cold morning but much warmer 
than it was the fore part of the Evening past. After 
I got my breakfast set off for Providence by way of 
Wainscoot and tarried at my father's the night fol- 
lowing. Where I had the Pleasure of seeing all my 



36 The Man 

Brothers and Sisters togeather Except my Sister 
Whipple. 

And again, under date of the 27th and 28th of 
March, 1781, — 

27th. After Breakfast I set off for Providence 
where I spent the day. At Evening went to my 
father's and tarried . . . 

28th. Spent the forenoon at my father's it being 
exceeding Cold and unpleasant. . . . One cir- 
cumstance in my journal of yesterday I forgot to 
mention, that is that I had the Pleasure of seeing 
Uncle James Angell at my father's who had not been 
there in 22 years before on acct. of some misunder- 
standing between him and my father. ^ 

Which shows that Israel Angell, although being 
above all else a military man, had in him the qualities 
of an excellent peacemaker! That he deplored all 
useless strife and realized its weakening, harmful 
power, is seen in a letter written to his brother, Hope, 
the 1st of December, 1775: 

Dear Brother — 

I take this opportunity to inform you that I still 
Enjoy that Blessing that is my Health. GOD be 

^The will of Hope Angell was dated 12th April, 1755; probated 
15th May, 1759. After providing for payment of debts and burial 
charges, and that his executors should pay to the Town Council or to 
the heirs of his brother James, all that belongs to his said brother's 
estate, he divided his estate between his sons, Abiah, Oliver, Elisha, 
Thomas, and James, and named his daughter, Lydia Young, and his 
granddaughter, Ruth Hawkins. Oliver and Elisha were named 
executors. 



As a Member of Society 37 

praised, and I hope that you and all Yours Receive 
the same Blessing. . . . Brother, I am much 
alarmed at the News of the Conduct of the People 
in Providence and the Towns adjacent, to hear 
that they are likely to rise in Mobs on account of 
Salts rising, and some other Small Articles. I 
begg Every honest and well meant Person both in 
Town and Country to Exert Themselves to the 
Utmost of their Power to surpress any riotous Pro- 
ceeding among Yourselves, especially at this time. 
For GOD'S sake, let Us unite as one in America. 
If we don't, but fall at variance among Ourselves, 
of all GOD'S Creation we shall be the most Miser- 
ablest. 

And it was just such words, spoken by the clear- 
sighted leaders of our War of Independence, that has 
kept the Flag of our Freedom unfurled over these 
United States. 

"He has friends who shows himself friendly," 
and in Israel Angell we have an example of the truth 
of that saying. His natural kindness of heart led 
him to many considerate acts, and his inherent 
bravery prompted him even to risk his life for others. 
An instance of this last is found in his diary under 
date of 25th February, 1781 : 

Col. Greene & myself Sett off for the point Early 
in the Morning. Went to Mr. Mandavil's, there 
left our horses, then went to cross the ferry, but 
found it all Blockt up with Ice. We then crost the 



38 The Man 

Flats upon the Ice to Constitution Island, where 
we crost just before night. On our way across the 
Ice, Ensign John Rogers fell through over a deep 
Crack, caught and hung by his arms. We en- 
deavored to get rails to throw to him, but could 
find none but some short pieces. At length I thought 
of tying my Great Coat and Col. Greene's together 
and then tying them to a stick. With the help of 
two little boys got it to him and Drawed him out; 
but I would not have run the risk I did for all the 
State of New York, had it not been to save Life. 
Stormed near all this Day. 

Bare details, but the essentials form a very vivid 
picture. The frozen Hudson, rough and white, 
between the snow-covered hills at West Point, a 
chilling winter rain at the end of a dark day, worn 
troops struggling over the ice towards shelter against 
the quickly oncoming night, — and then came the 
inevitable climax! This time it was an accident of 
a serious nature, a life in danger. Nothing in the diary 
hints at hot tempers or harsh words, but they un- 
doubtedly exploded and were uttered. No one 
but Israel Angell seems to have attempted rescue 
and he not only attempted but accomplished, great 
as was the danger, and sanely as he disliked the risk 
he ran. Instinctively, one wishes to know who the 
little boys were, and what they did, and one feels a 
strong inclination to echo the cheer that is sure to 
have gone up when shivering Ensign John Rogers 
was hauled out of those benumbing waters. We 



As a Member of Society 39 

can imagine his devotion to his Colonel, as well 
as the manner in which Israel Angell put aside all 
words of gratitude. It is worthy of note that it was 
the coats of the leaders which were used, and that 
the men were not asked to risk their garments. 

Philosophers of all ages afhrm that character is 
shown more by the manner that the small things of 
everyday are accomplished, than by the performance 
of a single heroic act. It is not by the yea or nay of 
a great decision that a man should be judged, but 
by the "little words" that he speaks. As the quaint 
old hymn of our childhood has it, it is the 

"Little deeds of kindness, 
Little words of love," 

that makes for the happiness of this world; and we 
know that he who lives in the practice of these lesser 
things, shall have all else added unto him. 

By the sidelights that are found in the letters and 
diaries of Israel Angell, we can form a very true esti- 
mate of the man. He responded nobly to an impera- 
tive need, and, without hesitation, saved a life at 
the risk of his own; in the same simple and direct 
way, he did smaller acts in the less spectacular, but 
not less important, daily intercourse with his fellow- 
men. 

During the time that Colonel Angell was at home 
on a short furlong because of an indisposition, it hap- 
pened that his friend, Doctor Cornelius, surgeon in 
the Second Rhode Island Regiment, accompanied 



40 The Man 

him. Early in the morning after their arrival, one 
of Colonel Angell's neighbors, Benjamin Luther, 
came for the Doctor, begging him to return with 
him to his child who was dangerously sick. This 
sad occurrence was a matter of serious concern in 
which the entire neighborhood interested itself, and 
at noon, when the child was thought to be near 
death. Colonel Angell and his wife joined others 
living near and went to the house of the anxious 
parents to offer such comfort as sympathy might 
bring. The little life fluttered on until the next 
morning, when the child died before daylight. In 
his diary, on the 22d September, 1778, Israel Angell 
wrote : 

A warm Morning & some foggy. About half past 
4 o'clock Mrs. Usher came and called up me & my 
wife to go over to Benjamin Luther's, for their child 
was a dying. We went as soon as possible, but the 
Child was dead before we got there. 

Then on the next day there follows this entry : 

A cloudy morning & rained some in the Forenoon, 
but the Storm begun to increase about Noon. I 
& my wife went to Burying at Benjamin Luther's, 
and immediately after we got there it set in to rain- 
ing very hard, & Stormed all the afternoon, and 
after Burying was over, we returned home, & Elder 
Samuel Windsor came to my house and tarried all 
Night. He and Elder Hopkins both Spoke at the 
Funeral. 



As a Citizen 41 

There were real neighbors in those days, people 
that were ready to sacrifice any personal comfort if 
so be a friend were to be helped, either physically or 
spiritually. How many of us to-day would get up 
in the first hours of a dark, foggy morning and go to 
a man's house, merely to show sympathy in a neigh- 
bor's trouble? How many would attend a little 
child's funeral in the pouring rain, when that child 
was neither kith nor kin, just to make plain to griev- 
ing hearts that they sorrowed not alone? May the 
answer to this roll-call be large ! There are, however, 
probably more than a few of us who would delay the 
course of a journey in order to be able to carry back 
to anxious grandparents the happy news of the safe 
arrival of a new member in their family. Israel 
Angell did this during his visit to Chenango County, 
on his way to see his children, when his impatience to 
proceed must have been great. But, as he states. "I 
thought it my duty to tarry in the Neighborhood untill 
I could carry news to her Parents in New England — " ; 
and as it is a pleasure to be the bearer of good news, 
he doubtless found that, in his case, — as, of course, it 
would be in ours ! — , virtue itself was sufficient reward. 

No consideration of the character of a man of 
family is complete without reference to the strongest 
influence upon it, the influence of his wife. Whether 
or no a woman be thought the better half of the mar- 
riage partnership, there can be no discussion about 
at least equal division of her sway over family for- 
tunes, for according to the wife so is the peace and 
progress of her household ; and more than this, from 



42 The Man 

the sacred precinct of the home goes forth the strength 
for the upbuilding of the nation. The women of 
Revolutionary days served their country with the 
same devotion that inspired their husbands, and al- 
though not officially recognized as such, were diplo- 
mats, strategists, and commanders, quite as truly as 
were the army leaders. Their service was given with 
a bravery unequaled by any man, for no man suf- 
fered as did these women from the degrading inso- 
lence of the enemy, or the humiliations incident to 
hospitality, all of which were far harder to bear than 
the physical discomforts amounting at times to bitter 
privations, which called forth their most patriotic 
endurance. Instances where women, by courage, 
wit, and fortitude, won victories over the foe can be 
gloriously multiplied to the everlasting honor of our 
Revolutionary mothers ; victories with no blood shed, 
no shot sounded, but as great as if led by the most 
famous general of the day. 

Who among us does not do honor to Mrs. Robert 
Murray, whose charm, whose cleverness, whose cour- 
age were her only weapons, yet who defeated the 
purposes of the British, enabled Putman to withdraw 
his troops from New York which led to the situation 
that made possible the victory of Harlem Heights. 
While Sir William Howe and his officers lunched 
with Mistress Murray, General Putnam led his strag- 
gling troops, down-hearted from the crushing defeat 
of Brooklyn, in stealthy retreat along the Blooming- 
dale Road, not only to safety, but to a commanding 
position above the city. 



As a Citizen 43 

Informed of the necessity which she had intuitively- 
recognized, for the detention of her unwelcome guests, 
Mistress Murray prolonged her hospitality as far as 
her attractiveness, her invention, her endurance, 
and her old Madeira would allow, and never, perhaps, 
had her smiles been more alluring than when her 
heart was beating with such intense anxiety ; for the 
Britons, flushed with their victory on Long Island as 
well as the rare wine they quaffed, were foretelling 
the annihilation of the rebels, which doubtless would 
have become an historical fact, had not woman's 
smiles been added to man's energy. Mistress Mur- 
ray's charm and General Putman's determination 
saved not only that day, but probably the possibility 
of our Independence. Only a mile apart, only two 
hours' delay! But as Opportunity opened wide 
her gates for those struggling bravely for Freedom 
she sternly closed her portals against those boasting 
vaingloriously that she might be commanded at will. 

And if we do honor to Mistress Murray, shall we 
not also praise such a woman as Lydia Darrach, who 
in her turn outwitted the British and swung the for- 
tunes of war to the American side ? In her house near 
Valley Forge, some enemy officers were quartered, 
and one evening these were joimed by others for a 
secret parley. The commanding officer found Lydia 
at her baking, and gruffly bade her see that the house- 
hold retired early, but that she hold herself ready 
to open the door for his guests when they should 
depart. Agreeing to his demands, as perforce she 
must, Lydia seized the moment to ask for a pass to 



44 The Man 

the mill, in order to obtain needed flour; a request 
promised to be granted the next day. Suspecting 
the nature of this meeting, Lydia, after a sharp 
struggle with her conscience, acutely sensitive from 
stern Puritanical teachings, stealthily listened, every 
sense a-quiver, to the schemes made by the enemy 
within her gates, and learned that there was a plot 
to attack Washington's camp on the following night. 
Early in the morning, this simple strategist obtained 
her pass to the mill, and trudging five miles through 
■the snow, never rested until she encountered an 
American officer, to whom she confided the inten- 
tions of the British. Quick woman's wit in grasping 
the opportunity at hand, saved that day, for those 
schemes of the enemy were forestalled and therefore 
failed, causing Sir William Howe to give up the pre- 
sent attack and retire into winter quarters. Clever 
and courageous as was Lydia Darrach, her greatest 
bravery consisted not in the listening, nor in the 
going, nor in the telling, but in her willingness to risk 
her peace of conscience by doing an underhanded 
thing, by committing a deliberate sin ; she was ready 
to endanger her soul that her Country might gain 
Freedom. A soldier on the battlefield makes no 
greater sacrifice. 

As worthy as either of these women, splendidly as 
they arose to the imperative need of the moment, 
were the hundreds of devoted wives and mothers 
who, all day and every day, carried on with coura- 
geous perseverance the burdens and responsibilities 
of homes from which the accustomed support had 



As a Citizen 45 

suddenly been taken. How loyally these brave 
guardians of the home accepted the long separations 
which the patriotic service of their soldier-husbands 
enforced! How nobly, without rank of Captain or 
Colonel, without sound of fife or drum, they com- 
manded their little companies the precious children, 
who, ordered by such wise generalship, became the 
strong and intelligent forces that have upheld our 
New England States ! 

Such a woman, such a comrade in spirit, was 
Martha, wife of Israel Angell. When he went into the 
Army, she was but twenty-eight years of age, and 
their family consisted of six children, the eldest of 
which was nine years old. Inheriting from her 
stanch ancestors, as Israel did from his, traits of 
capability and courage, Martha conducted all their 
home affairs bravely and well, so that when her hus- 
band returned on furlough, were it only for a few 
hours, he came to a haven of rest wherein he renewed 
strength both of mind and body. Greater praise 
can no man give than the words which, again and 
again, occur in Colonel Angell's diaries, "tarried at 
my house to-day, and found all well.'' There- 
fore, while we consider the character of Israel Angell 
let us not forget the sweet and enduring influence of 
Martha, his capable and patriotic wife, who through- 
out the term of his service in the Army, safeguarded 
their home and children with unswerving devotion to 
her family and her country. 

All honor to the women of the Revolution! May 
they be remembered to the third and fourth gener- 



46 The Man 

ation, — more, may yet further generations bequeath 
the duty of ancestral reverence as a sacred inherit- 
ance to their children's children forever. 

Memories of those days when their father was a 
soldier must have made thrilling fireside stories for 
Israel Angell's children to tell their own boys and 
girls. "Your Grandfather rode so well!" "Your 
Grandfather looked so finely!" — we can easily im- 
agine the bright eager eyes that seemed to take in 
each exciting detail. Doubtless among other tales, 
Colonel Angell's grandchildren often heard of his 
participation in the entry of General Washington 
into the city of Providence, 5th of April, 1776. This 
visit of Washington's was a great event in the life of 
the town, and the various independent companies, 
cadets, grenadiers, and light infantry of the city 
were joined with two Continental regiments to form 
the General's escort. Much pains were taken to 
have the men fit for inspection, and the following 
orders were issued by General Greene: 

PROvroENCE, April 4, 1776. 

Col? Hitchcock's and Col9 Little's regiments are to 
turn out to-morrow morning to escort his Excellency 
into town, to parade at 8 o'clock, both officers & 
men dressed in uniform, & none to turn out except 
those dressed in uniform, & those of the non-com- 
missioned officers & soldiers that turn out to be 
washed, both face & hands, clean, their beards shaved 
their hair combed & powdered, & their arms cleaned. 
The General hopes that both officers & soldiers will 



As a Citizen 47 

exert themselves for the honour of the regiment & 
brigade to which they belong. He wishes to pay the 
honours to the Commander in Chief in as decent & 
respectable a manner as possible. 

It was not only the military that made prepara- 
tions to impress his Excellency, for fair ladies donned 
their prettiest, the town was festively decorated, and 
a house was prepared for General Washington's 
party, which comprised his official family. Lady 
Washington, and Mr. and Mrs. Custis. Israel A-ngell, 
then a Major only, riding at the head of his bat- 
talion, never looked more martial and perhaps never 
enjoyed more thoroughly the opportunity to show 
his fellow-townsmen — and without ostentation — 
what a fine commanding figure had their neighbor! 
His wife must have been among the ladies of Provi- 
dence who gathered to view the parade from windows 
and porches, and with the other children, his boys 
and girls must have waved and cheered, and pointed 
out to each other those whom they knew among the 
men as they marched by. It was a day of pride and 
rejoicing never to be forgotten for not only the town, 
but all the country for miles around. 

Throughout his life, Israel Angell was noted for his 
fine horsemanship, and even in his old age, rode 
remarkably well. One of his descendants who saw 
him on parade at eighty-five, admiringly spoke of him 
as "an elegant rider." He has been described as "of 
medium height, light complexion, auburn hair sur- 
mounted by a wig, blue eyes, a strong Roman nose. 



48 The Man 

and as straight as a ramrod." It is of the greatest 
regret to his descendants that this word-picture is the 
only clue that we have to the personal appearance of 
Colonel Angell. Imagination instinctively adds, a 
most kindly smile in moments of pleasure, an austere 
expression when in authority, a fiery eye, a quick 
temper, an intense sense of justice, and a deeply af- 
fectionate disposition. A good man, a good soldier, 
and a good friend. 

A pendulum that does not swing, moves no 
machinery, both sides of the arc must be touched, so 
relaxation must balance work, or the results will be 
disastrous. With satisfaction, therefore, one learns 
of the enjoyment that the Revolutionary officers had 
together at mess, or in entertaining friends, and one 
hopes that the rank and file also found opportunities 
for pleasure, to counteract the privations and hard- 
ships they were forced to undergo. 

Israel Angell, possessing unusual social qualities, 
was a welcome and sought-for guest wherever he 
might be. His diary abounds with mention of his 
dining here and there, with this or that person of 
importance; the facts, however, always being stated 
with great simplicity and no suggestion of self -conse- 
quence. There was no leader of the times with 
whom he came in contact, from Washington down, 
that Israel Angell did not associate with on friendly 
as well as official terms. Naturally, the men from 
Rhode Island gravitated together, and with fre- 
quency Colonel Angell notes that he was dining 
at the invitation of, or in company with, General 



As a Friend 49 

Nathaniel Greene, General Varnum, Colonel Christo- 
pher Greene, General Miller, and Governor Bowen, 
all from that valiant little State, — a brave clan, sons 
worthy of upholding her most fearless traditions. 
Constant meetings among the commanding officers 
of these closely associated regiments, must have 
added greatly to their unity of spirit, and conse- 
quently to their efficiency. 

These military dinners were not only occasions for 
consultation, but were often enlivened by dramatic 
occurrences, as at the time Colonel Angell dined the 
officers of his own regiment on the anniversary of the 
battle of Monmouth. It was on the 28th of June, 
1779, the weather had been extremely hot, and 
Colonel Angell himself not at all well, in fact, as he put 
it, "In a shocking state of health." However, the 
28th being a "raw, cloudy, windy morning" every 
one felt better, and prepared to celebrate, as the 
Second Rhode Island Regiment had borne a con- 
spicuous part at Monmouth, and had every right 
to remember the day with pride. Colonel Angell 
was then stationed at Barber's Heights, a high hill 
near North Kingston, R. I., and from its summit a 
fine view could be obtained of Narraganset Bay and 
far out to sea. The Diary states, — 

This being the day that the battle was at Mon- 
mouth, I prepared an Entertainment for all the 
Officers of my Regt. and all dined together. There 
came a brigg in from Sea this afternoon. I ordered 
a piece of artillery down to the Shore and brought 



50 The Man 

Her to. It proved to be a Brigg from Santa Cruz 
bound to Providence, with Rum and Sowering on 
board. Thus ends the day. William Jacobs master 
of the abovesd Brigg. 

A convivially inclined person might query at this 
point, ''How ended the day? Did Santa Cruz 
contribute to the high spirits of the occasion?" Be 
that as it may, it is certain that few dinner-parties 
have had so thrilling an ending. 

While still at Barber's Heights, Colonel Angell's 
Regiment celebrated another anniversary, amid 
even more exciting circumstances than the dinner- 
party just mentioned. On the 226. October, 1779, 
they commemorated the victory over the Hessians 
at Red Bank two years before. The whole country- 
side for miles around Newport, was aroused over the 
news that the British were evacuating that city 
and that their fleet was preparing to sail. Smoke 
had been seen from the enemy's fortifications, show- 
ing that they were burning their platforms and 
making arrangements for departure, while their ships 
lay in line ready to get under weigh. Great numbers 
of the inhabitants came into camp to observe the 
movements of the enemy, all rejoicing in relief 
from their hated presence. Obeying the impulse 
to do something out of ordinary routine, and pleased 
to indulge in a triumphal celebration. Colonel Angell 
and his officers "provided a Dinner & all dined 
together," including also many of the more promin- 
ent persons living thereabouts. Doubtless the 



As a Friend 51 

anniversary of the victory at Red Bank would have 
been commemorated under any conditions, but it 
was especially satisfactory to feast and exult at a 
moment when the vanquished enemy was retreating 
from the strongholds they had occupied so long. 
Several hundreds of the country people came to Bar- 
ber's Heights in order to see the fleet depart, but the 
wind not being advantageous, the sailing was post- 
poned. The troops of Colonel Angell's Regiment 
also celebrated this anniversary and vented their joy 
by burning an effigy of Count Dunop, and in erecting 
a Liberty Pole nearly eighty feet high. At the same 
time, the enemy, after the manner of all the defeated, 
continued to destroy everything that they could, 
which in this case included the burning of some hay 
and the setting fire to the light-house on Conanicut 
Island. Thus Colonel Angell's guests were enter- 
tained by impromptu fireworks on all sides ! It was 
not until late afternoon of the third day following 
that the British fleet finally sailed. The pubUc 
interest, however, was not in the least abated by this 
delay, still due to unfavorable weather conditions, for 
the people unflaggingly continued to come out to the 
Hill in large crowds, and on the actual day of sailing 
"Governor Greene's lady & daughter" were also 
present to witness the withdrawal of the enemy, 
which, national interests quite aside, must have 
been a beautiful sight indeed — all those great vessels 
under full sail, passing away in the light of the setting 
sun! 

The activities of the British were reported to 



52 The Man 

Headquarters at all hours, and "Expresses" were 
received at any time wherever the commanding 
officers might happen to be. Colonel Angell records 
that while dining with the valiant Marquis de Lafay- 
ette, news reached them of the destruction of Bedford; 
disastrous and alarming information, which probably 
turned that pleasant meal into a council of war. 
His entry of 6th September, 1778, reads: 

Clear & hot this morning. There was a firing of 
Cannon heard the night past & this morning there 
Came an Express from Bedford informing us that 
the Brittish troops had landed & burnt Bedford. I 
dined with the Marquis de Lafayette, & while we 
were at table there came another Express with four 
Deserters from Bedford, informing us that all the 
houses & Stores & Shipping were destroyed at Bed- 
ford, and that the Troops were all Embarked on 
board their Ships. While I was at the Marquis', 
my brother Jason came to me & brought the agree- 
able news that my Family & Friends were all well. 
He set off for Home in the Evening. 

Certainly a day of mixed interests! War news 
interrupting a pleasant meal, with family affairs 
interspersed. 

As the Revolution continued and more of the 
French arrived to aid the Americans, their inter- 
course naturally became social as well as martial, 
our foreign allies being exceedingly popular wherever 
they went. At first, however, there was a great deal 



As a Friend 53 

of curiosity on both sides, and as the Abb6 Robin 
wrote : 

The Americans . . . are received with lively joy, 
we cause our military instruments to play for them; 
of which they are passionately fond. Ofificers and 
soldiers, then, American men and women, mix and 
dance together ; it is a feast of equality ; the first fruits 
of the alliance which must prevail between those 
nations. These people are still in the happy period 
when distinctions of rank and birth are ignored ; they 
treat alike the soldier and the officer, and often ask 
the latter what is his profession in his country, unable 
as they are to imagine that that of a warrior may be a 
fixed and permanent one. 

The independent character of the American people 
greatly impressed the Abbe, who further says: 

I have seen Washington, the soul and support of 
one of the greatest revolutions that ever happened. 
In a country where every individual has a part in 
supreme authority — he has been able to maintain 
his troops in absolute subordination, rendering them 
jealous of his praise, making them fear his very 
silence. 

Rochambeau's men were first quartered in New- 
port and Providence, and from the diary of the 
Marquis de Chastellux, we read an interesting 
account of Providence as it appeared to his sophisti- 
cated eyes: 



54 The Man 

The town of Providence is built on a bank of a 
river only six miles long, which disembogues itself 
in the Gulph wherein are Rhode Island, Connecticut, 
Providence, etc. It has only one street, which is 
ver>^ long; the suburb, which is considerable, is 
on the other side of the river. This town is hand- 
some, the houses are not spacious, but well built and 
properly arranged within. It is pent in between 
two chains of mountains, one to the north, and the 
other to the south-west, which causes an insupport- 
able heat in summer; but it is exposed to the north- 
west wind, which rakes it from one end to the other, 
and renders it extremely cold in winter. Its situ- 
ation is very advantageous for commerce. . . . 
Merchant ships may load and unload their cargoes 
in the town itself, and ships of war cannot approach 
the harbor. 

But it was not the outward appearance of things 
alone that interested this observant young officer, 
who notes appreciatively the delightful home atmos- 
phere in the dwelling of an American officer with 
whom he became on friendly terms: "This little 
establishment, where comfort and simplicity reign, 
gave an idea of that sweet and serene state of happi- 
ness which appears to have taken refuge in the New 
World." 

Another of Rochambeau's young officers. Baron de 
Closen, had also a sentimental turn of mind, and 
made copious notes of the many things that occupied 



As a Friend 55 

his attention in the new and strange land in which he 
found himself. He felt the beauty of the spring as 
they passed through the country: "The country 
between Bristol and Providence," he says, is charm- 
ing. We thought we had been transported into a 
Paradise, all the roads being lined with acacias in full 
bloom, filling the air with a delicious, almost too 
strong, fragance." And he also felt the charm of his 
many beautiful hostesses! "Nature has endowed 
the ladies of Rhode Island with the handsomest, 
finest features one can imagine; their complexion is 
clear and white, their hands and feet usually small." 
The only thing he seems to have had against these 
fair ladies, is the enormous amount of tea courtesy 
obliged him to drink when paying social visits. "To 
crave mercy," he writes, "when one has taken half a 
dozen cups, one must put the spoon across the cup; 
for as long as you do not place it so, your cup is 
always taken, rinsed, filled again, and placed before 
you. After the first, the custom is for the pretty 
pourer — most of them are so — to ask you, — 'is the tea 
suitable?'" Another polite custom also struck the 
Count de Closen as peculiar, and he remarks upon it 
as follows, — "It is good behavior each time people 
meet to accost each other, mutually offering the hand 
and shaking it. English fashion. Arriving in a 
company of men, one thus goes around, but must 
remember that it belongs to one of higher rank to 
extend his hand first." 

When at the end of the war, Rochambeau was 
again in Providence, he gave many delightful enter- 



56 The Man 

tainments as a return for the generous hospitality 
offered to him and his officers in former years. Ac- 
cording to the Count de Segur : 

M. de Rochambeau, desirous to the very last of 
proving by the details of his conduct, as well as by 
the great services he had rendered, how much he 
wished to keep the affections of the Americans and to 
carry away their regrets, gave in the city of Provi- 
dence frequent assemblies and numerous balls, to 
which the people flocked for ten leagues around. I 
do not remember to have seen gathered together in 
any spot more gayety and less confusion, more pretty 
women, and more happily married couples, more 
grace and less coquetry, a more complete mingling 
of persons of all classes, between whom an equal de- 
cency, allowed no untoward difference to be seen. That 
decency, that order, that wise liberty, that felicity 
of the new Republic, so ripe from its very cradle, 
were the continual subject of my surprise and the 
object of my frequent talks with the Chevalier de 
Chastellux. 

One wonders how exactly the French and Ameri- 
cans managed to understand one another in their 
attempts to speak each other's language. Colonel 
Angell writes phonetically of a "fu-de-joy " in remark- 
ing upon a celebration where the firing of cannon and 
smaller pieces was used in a demonstration over a 
victory; doubtless his spoken word was as compre- 
hensive, even if as un-Parisian, as his expressions in 



As a Friend 57 

black and white. A noteworthy occasion when a 
"fu-de-joy" was ordered, was after the success of 
General Anthony Wayne at Stony Point, when, on 
19th July, 1779, "he took the Fort on surprise, 
carried it with the loss of four men killed & eleven 
wounded. The Garrison consisted of five hundred 
British Troops who were killed & made Prisoners to a 
man. It is said that lOO of them were killed & 
wounded." Then on the 21st, Colonel Angell con- 
tinues, "This day we had a fu-de-joy on the occasion 
of Stoney Point being taken, by firing thirteen pieces 
of Cannon. I with a number of Gentlemen dined 
with Peter Phillips Esqr. Thus ends the Day." 
Mr. Phillips was at that time Assistant Deputy, and, 
although there could then have been but one main 
topic of conversation — the Country's weal or woe — it 
must have been interesting for Colonel Angell to 
talk matters over with intelligent persons having an 
outlook other than a purely military one. Sidelights 
are never neglected by the truly wise. For the 
above reason, therefore, the invitations to dine with 
Governor Bradford, General Vamum, Colonel 
Thomas Potter, and a number of gentlemen of the 
Superior Court at Little Rest, must have been 
accepted with pleasure and resulted in an unusually 
delightful affair. In the quaint manner of the day, 
Colonel Angell states that he was accompanied on 
this occasion by three relatives, — "I, Col. Olney, 
Capt. Coggeshall, & Capt. Stephen Olney set off 
and dined with them & returned in the Evening." 
In this fashion, moments of social relaxation were 



58 The Man 

enjoyed from time to time during those strenuous 
days, with interchange of hospitality as occasion 
offered. As seen in the above record, Colonel Angell 
dined with Governor Bradford, and he, in turn, 
came to the mess of the Second Rhode Island Regi- 
ment. "Gov. Bradford came to my quarters this 
Day and Dined with us." And the same pleasant 
interchange of courtesies was true between Colonel 
Angell and other dignitaries and officers through the 
entire period of the war; among many others. General 
Stark's and Colonel Livingston's names occur as his 
hosts from time to time. 

All the social events of this period, however, were 
not of a military character. Israel Angell often 
notes, when on furlough, that "many people were at 
my house this day," proof of his popularity and of 
Martha Angell's capabilities as a hostess! He 
mentions dining "with General Vamum's lady," with 
Parson Thompson, with his old friend, Mr. Consider 
Luther, and other private individuals, showing that 
neighborly intercourse was not entirely displaced by 
the duties of the Army. While still at Barber's 
Heights, the officers of the Second Rhode Island 
Regiment received an invitation to dine with a Mr. 
Gardner, who owned a large "farm " on Boston Neck, 
near North Kingston. This property formally 
belonged to George Rome, "a gentleman of estate," 
who had come to Rhode Island in 1761 , as an agent of 
the firm of Halsey and Hopkins, of England. There 
were seven hundred acres in this estate, and the house 
thereon was famous for its luxurious elegance. We 



As a Friend 59 

are told that "the mansion was highly finished and 
furnished. The beds were concealed from view in 
the wainscots — the rooms might be traversed 
throughout, and not a bed for the repose of the guests 
be seen. . . . When the hour for retirement arrived, 
a servant would just give a touch to a spring in the 
ceiling and the visitor's bed, by means of a self- 
adjusting process, would protrude itself, as if by the 
effect of magic, ready for the reception of its tenant." 
Mr. Rome lived in Newport during the winter, but 
in summer repaired to his residence on Narragansett 
Bay, which he called Batchelor's Hall, "my little 
country villa." Edward Field, in his book on Ezek 
Hopkins,^ writes the following description of the 
place : 

The house and the grounds around it were the most 
elaborate of any in the colony. Here, surrounded 
by a large circle of friends, he (Rome) entertained in a 
sumptuous manner. Invitations to partake of his 
hospitality indicate somewhat the nature of the 
entertainment provided, for, writing to one of his 
friends, he says: "My compliments to Colonel 
Stewart: May I ask the favor of you both to come 
and eat a Christmas dinner with me at Batchelor's 
Hall, and celebrate the festivities of the season with 
me in Narragansett woods? A covey of partridges 
or bevy of quail will be entertainment for the Colonel 
and me, while the pike and pearch pond will amuse 
you." 

^Esek Hopkins, Commander-in-Chief of the American Navy. 



60 The Man 

Mr. Rome upheld the crown during the excitement 
of the Stamp Act, and later was obliged to flee the 
country, when his wonderful estate fell into other 
hands. The function given by Mr. Gardner in honor 
of Colonel Angell was of considerable importance, for 
he notes the event with more than usual detail^: 

This Day we had an invitation to Dine with a 
Number of Gentlemen and Ladies at one Mr. Gard- 
ener's, who lives on the farm that was Rome's. I 
and Col. Olney went, and spent the Day very agree- 
able, being a very respectable Company of the most 
principal Inhabitants for Several miles around. 

Although hardly proper to be chronicled among 
these social matters, it is interesting to note that 
some representatives of the Indians were entertained 
at camp, while Colonel Angell was stationed at West 
Point. These Indians were part of a company of 
eighteen chiefs that had been invited at the sug- 
gestion of the French to visit Providence and New- 
port, for the purpose of detaching them from the 
British influence, and strengthening their union 
with the American cause. General Philip Schuyler 
approved this proposition and executed orders for its 
furtherance. Thirteen Oneidas and Tuscaroras, and 
five Caughnawagas from Canada headed the dele- 
gation. The plan was carried out with great 
thoroughness. In Newport, the savages dined with 
Rochambeau, who presented them with red blankets 

^ Diary, 30th June, 1779, p. 57, and note. 



As a Friend 6i 

and gave the chiefs medals representing the coron- 
ation of the French King! The Indians also dined 
on board the Due de Bourgogne with Admiral de 
Temay, on which occasion, according to a witness, 
"they behaved themselves well, and ate cleanly 
enough." That they were not indifferent to the 
kindnesses shown them, was demonstrated by the 
savages, who executed a war dance for the enter- 
tainment of their hosts. The French, in their turn, 
paraded for the Indians, and compliments were given 
and taken to the best of the ability of both sides. On 
their return North, some of the Oneidas stopped at 
West Point, where they were also entertained by a 
parade, reviewed by Washington himself. Colonel 
Angell thus records the affair under date of Sept. 
13th, 1780. 

The Brigade of General Starks was reviewed about 
nine o'clock in the morning, with a Retinue of all the 
General Officers of the Army and great part of the 
field Officers, and all the Savages of note. 

Orders were given to "make as great Show as possi- 
ble," and the glistening arms of the Americans, vying 
with the bright war paint of their Indian allies, must 
have combined to make a spectacle of the most 
picturesque description. One witness of the parade 
tells us that it was a disgusting sight, that the savages 
were all drunk, dressed in rags, and their horses only 
bones. There are always two sides to every picture, 
and probably this person was not interested in 



62 The Man 

ethnological matters; Colonel Angell is to be com- 
mended for his reticence concerning disagreeable 
aspects of the occasion, and no restraint shall be put 
on our imagination ! 

It was not always easy to keep those independent 
and untrained soldiers up to the mark in niceties of 
personal appearance, and Colonel Angell, strict 
disciplinarian though he was, had troubles enough 
concerning the apparel of his men. It was suffici- 
ently difficult to keep the troops decently clothed, 
for generally they lacked the very essentials of 
ordinary comfort, and, therefore after a special effort 
to improve their uniforms, it was particularly annoy- 
ing to have the soldiers refuse to be properly dressed. 
On one day, Colonel Angell writes with pride : 

I furnished my Regt. to-day with their new Hatts, 
all bound, and they made a grand appearance on the 
Parade, being as well clothed as any troops in the 
Service. 

But later, during a time of mutiny, he records with 
much displeasure: 

Had the Mortification to find that two thirds of 
the Sergts. in the Regt. had conspired together and 
ript the bindings off their Hatts, contrary to Orders. 
I issued an Order to put them on by next morning, by 
guard mounting, or they would be reduced to the 
ranks without the formality of a Court Martial, and 
tried for wilful Disobedience of Orders. 



As a Friend 63 

The third entry, brief and terse as it is, expresses 
satisfaction in every word, "This morning, by eight 
o'clock, the Sergts. had all their bindings on." And 
so, as Israel Angell himself would say, "ended the 
day," which had been one of little things, but had 
resulted in a victory not to be despised. 

So ends also this outline of Israel Angell's character 
as shown in his own acts and words. And how shall 
we judge of a man? According to the manner in 
which he accomplishes the thing his hand finds to do 
— so is he ! 



CHAPTER IV 

A WORD TO HIS DESCENDANTS 

His Character as an Inheritance — His Example as an Inspiration — 
His Memory as a Treasure. 

His Character as an Inheritance. 

He was not a great man, gauged by the standards 
of wealth and position, neither does he appear 
prominently among those made known by fame, but 
he did his part thoroughly, he lived his life honestly, 
he served his country bravely; — a loving father, 
a good friend, an intrepid soldier, a noble patriot, — 
his memory is at once a pride and a blessing to us all. 

Bit by bit the pieces forming the mosaic of his 
character have been assembled, yet the design is 
incomplete, and must be finished by our affectionate 
imaginations. In all the material investigated, no 
rough or ugly inserts have been found, although 
doubtless there were some, as is the case with each of 
us, — some bits we would were not apparent, some bits 
loosely placed, some bits fallen away. Had such been 
discovered in Israel Angell's life they would have 
been frankly mentioned; he stands uprightly before 
us, a true gentleman. 

We solemnly remind ourselves that we are the 
heirs of a splendid past, and must therefore play a 

64 



His Character as an Inheritance 65 

worthy part while we are on the stage. We recall the 
fact that we stand in line of noble ancestry, and must 
hand on to the coming time an untarnished name. 
We refresh the recollection that we are guardians of 
a national treasure which our fathers purchased 
with their blood and which we must therefore cherish 
as our life. We emphasize the truth that our costli- 
est heritage is neither gold, nor land, nor rank, but 
of character. ^ 

His Example as an Inspiration, 

How much we owe to the men who stood the test of 
battle none of us can fully realize, for deeds, lives, 
honor, and bravery do not end with Peace after War, 
Oblivion after Death, — no, the influence is endless, 
the inspiration is unfailing, and the thrilling words of 
Israel Angell, written to his brother Hope in the first 
days of the Revolution, — "For God's sake, let us be 
united as one in America," are for you, and for me, 
and for all true Americans. 

"All that our fathers wrought, 
With true prophetic thought, 
Must be defended." 

The example of a brave man is an inspiration. 

His Memory as a Treasure, 

Problems of life were the same in his days as in 
ours, and as Israel Angell left an honorable record, 

^Duffield, An American Lineage. 
5 



66 A Word to His Descendants 

so may we, his descendants. The years of liberty 
and unlimited opportunity that we have enjoyed, are 
chiefly due to our ancestors, who fought for us, far 
more than themselves, the War of the Revolution. 
No founders of any government have been more 
patriotic, none ever exhibited greater perseverance 
and endurance, greater intelligence and bravery, 
greater ability to conquer, notwithstanding almost 
overwhelming odds. 

To recall their glorious deeds is a holy duty, for 
"Thou art not for thyself, but for mankind." The 
memory of a good man is a treasure, — may we that 
follow after Israel Angell, guard well our inheritance. 

"To teach our sons and daughters, by precept and 
example, the honor of serving such a country as 
America, — that is a work worthy of the finest man- 
hood and womanhood. The well-bom are those who 
are bom to do that work. The well-bred are those 
who are bred to be proud of that work. The well 
educated are those who see the deepest into the 
meaning and the necessity of that work. Nor shall 
labor be for naught, nor the reward of their sacrifice 
fail them. For high in the firmament of human 
destiny are set the stars of faith in mankind."' 

' Van Dyke: The Americanism oj Washington. 



PART II 
Military Services 

OF 

Colonel Israel Angell 

During the War for Independence 

1775-1781 



67 



The story of any member of a military organization is in a 
great measure that of the unit with which he was connected. 
This is especially so where the soldier was a member of a small 
organization, and where as in the case of the subject of this work 
he was an officer, and a field officer. 

The regimental organizations of the Revolution were small 
in numbers, and the number of officers seems large in contrast 
with the number of rank and file. Under the system then in 
vogue this was hardly avoidable. 

Team work is the key to all successful military operations; 
if we know a man was present with his organization and know 
what his organization accomplished, we know the part he took. 
If a company or regiment was complimented it meant the officers 
were entitled to their share of the praise, and the reverse is true. 
To the officers was due the efficiency of the regiment, and espe- 
cially was that due to the field officers, who in the period under 
consideration were much closer to their men than at the present 
day of large companies and regiments. There is little doubt 
Colonel Angell knew every one of his men by name; knew their 
families, and their personal history. There were times when his 
regiment numbered less than 150 men fit for duty. He was their 
leader in every thing that word implies. Commencing his mili- 
tary experience in the militia as a private in the ranks, he was 
soon chosen lieutenant, and then a captain, and when the call 
came to enlist men for the Army of Observation, his ability as a 
leader of men was recognized, and he was commissioned a major. 
By successive promotions he became colonel. 

Because the military experience of Colonel Angell was simply 
the history of the battalion and regiment which he commanded, 
it has been found necessary to tell the story of the Second Rhode 
Island Regiment ; and because at times that regiment is lost in the 
small brigade to which it was attached it has been found necessary 
to tell something of the brigade. During the periods in which 
Colonel Angell was not with the regiment, some account of the 

69 



70 Israel Angell 

organization has been given, not only to keep the continuity of 
the story, but because even if not present it was his abihty and 
faithfulness in training his regiment, the efficiency he inculcated 
from the top down, which gave the regiment its morale and en- 
abled it to behave well in critical moments. To the commanding 
officer, whether he be colonel of a regiment, or general who 
trains a division, even if he is removed on the eve of battle, should 
go an equal if not greater share of the glory of the day. 

Every known instance when Angell was not with his command 
is mentioned in the following pages. At all other times it is to be 
assumed, even if he is not specifically mentioned by name, that 
what is written is a part of his personal history. He was there; 
he led; obeyed orders and gave orders. His then is the credit for 
what is told in these pages of the regiment with which he was 
associated. 

E. P. 



MILITARY LIFE 

Israel Angell was thirty-five years of age at the time he was 
commissioned a major in the Rhode Island Army of Observation. 
His military life commenced at that time, although his military 
experience, such as it was, may be said to have begun when he 
first turned out to train with the local militia company. The law 
in those days required that every able-bodied man between the 
ages of sixteen and sixty years of age, unless exempt from certain 
specified causes, should be enrolled in the militia and should be 
trained at certain periods. As Angell was not born until 24th 
August, 1740, he could not have been enrolled in the militia prior 
to the annual training of 1756. The alarm occasioned by the 
capture of Fort William Henry, 9th August, 1757, caused more 
than twenty thousand of the militia of New England to prepare 
to take the field to defend the country should Montcalm attempt 
to follow up his advantage. In Rhode Island one sixth part of 
the military force of the colony was placed under marching orders, 
but the alarm proving needless they were not called upon to 
move. The following year Rhode Island proposed to furnish one 
thousand men, and a contingent formed part of General 
Abercrombie's force. In 1759 ten hundred men from Rhode 
Island took part in the expedition against Canada under Sir 
Jeffrey Amherst. 

Whether or no Israel Angell was at any time in the colonial 
forces, his name does not appear in any extant roll, he was at 
that age when military preparations and life would seem attrac- 
tive, and the impressions then obtained would affect his entire 
after life. Indeed, the inclination for soldiering, if existing at 
all, is early developed, and Israel Angell was always a soldier. 
The year 1769 found him already a lieutenant in the local 
company of militia, commanded by Captain Seth Tripp. 
The following May, Angell was in command of this Johnston 
company, a part of one of the three Providence County regi- 

71 



72 Israel Angell 

ments^ of militia forming a brigade under the command of 
Colonel James Angell. One of the field officers in this brigade 
was Major Daniel Hitchcock. 

While in many of the towns the spirit of the times called for 
the formation of independent companies commanded by the 
more active and skilful of the militia officers, and whose members 
were culled from the less efficient mass of militia, often com- 
manded by officers having little or no military qualifications, the 
character of the officers of the local militia company in Johnston 
made such an organization unnecessary. Captain Angell had for 
his lieutenant, Daniel Wightman, and for his ensign, Emor 
Olney ; and had his company well trained, and well in hand for 
any emergency which might arise. 

Providence and the adjoining towns, formerly a part of that 
ancient township, were intensely patriotic communities. There 
was little Tory sentiment in that entire region, a marked con- 
trast to the county of Newport.^ On the first Monday in April, 
I775» ^^ general muster of the militia of the county brought out 
about two thousand foot and a troop of horse. The independent 
companies were unattached, and chose their own officers. When 
tidings of the march of the regular troops out of Boston and of 
the affray at Lexington reached Providence, the independent 
companies and some of the militia companies in the smaller 
towns assembled under arms, expecting orders to march to 
Boston. But neither the Governor, Joseph Wanton, nor the 
Deputy-Governor, Darius Sessions, were in sympathy with the 
popular movement. Indeed, one of the independent companies, 
the Kentish Guards, commanded by Captain James Mitchel 
Varnum, a Massachusetts man, and in which Nathanael Greene 
was a private, having reached Pawtucket, was recalled by orders 
of the Governor. Greene continued to Attleboro, where word 
reached him that the regulars had been driven back to Boston. 

' In 1770 the Providence County militia were organized as one regiment, 
commanded by Colonel Knight Dexter. In 1774 three regiments were organ- 
ized. That year witnessed the formation of several "independent " companies, 
which corresponded to the companies of minute men organized in Massachu- 
setts. James Angell became a brigadier general of militia. 

^ In June, 1774, the county of Providence had a population of 19,206, the 
colony, 59, 678, of whom 3761 were negroes, and 182 Indians. The population 
of Providence was 4321, and of Johnston, 1031. 



Military Life 73 

The General Assembly was convened, and on the 25th the 
Lower House directed that two of its members be appointed to 
wait upon the Lower House of the Connecticut Assembly, to 
consult upon measures for the common defense of the four New 
England colonies, and at the same time resolved, "at this very 
dangerous Crisis of American Affairs, at a Time when we are 
surrounded with Fleets and Armies" that fifteen hundred men 
be raised for the service of the Colony "and the general Cause." ^ 

At this session it was also voted, "That the military Ofhcers 
throughout this Colony, or any other Gentlemen who shall be 
willing, Do forthwith inHst Fifteen Hundred good effective Men, 
for the service of the Colony ; and that each Man, who shall inlist, 
shall receive a Bounty of Four Dollars, and be entitled to the 
monthly wages of One Pound, Sixteen Shillings." 

The situation caused by the failure of the Assembly to name 
the officers who should command the levies was not corrected 
until the next session, a week later. Nevertheless such men as 
Angell, Simeon Thayer, and many others, at once proceeded to 
engage men for the little army, although not knowing what rank 
they might hold, nor even if they would be commissioned at all 
in this force. 

When the General Assembly met, the first Monday in May, 
steps were taken at once to meet the emergency which had arisen, 
not only in the need of officers for the force then raising, but with 
regard to the chief civil officers of the colony. 

It was provided that this "Army of Observation," as the 
force was cautiously designated, should be organized as a 
brigade of three regiments, each to have three field officers, 
colonel, lieutenant-colonel, and major, and each to be composed 
of eight companies. The battery of artillery,^ composed of 
four field pieces, was attached to the brigade. 

' To this vote Joseph Wanton, Darius Sessions, Thomas Wicks, and WilUam 
Potter dissented. But three days later General James Angell wrote to the 
Massachusetts Committee of Safety "at the request of the Deputy-Governor," 
who was no other than Sessions, stating that he could "only say that as Briga- 
dier of the three Battalions under my Command (which included Israel 
Angell's Johnston company), in the County of Providence I will furnish you, 
upon any Alarm, with six hundred men." 

' "The United Train of Artillery in the Town of Providence" consisted of 
the Providence Fusileers, which in December, 1774, had been placed under the 



74 Israel Angell 

The regiment which claimed to be the senior regiment, having 
been apportioned to the senior county of the Colony, Provi- 
dence County, was officered as follows : 

Colonel, Daniel Hitchcock; Lieutenant-Colonel, Ezekiel 
Cornell; Major, Israel Angell; Captain-lieutenants, Simeon 
Thayer (of the Colonel's company), Stephen Kimball (of the 
Lieutenant-colonel's company), and John Field (of the Major's 
company) ; Captains, Andrew Waterman, John Angell (of the 
North Providence company), Christopher Olney, Jeremiah 
Olney, Nathaniel Blackmar. 

The oath of enlistment required of each man read in part 
that he enlisted "as a soldier in his Majesty's service, and in the 
pay of the Colony of Rhode Island, for the preservation of the 
liberties of America." The term of enlistment was to the last 
day of December, 1775. 

Enlisted men of the grade of private received 40 shillings a 
month. The colonel 15 pounds, lieutenant-colonel, 12 pounds, 
major, 10 pounds, captain, 6 pounds. This pay was in Rhode 
Island currency, not English sterling, which expressed in dollars 
was $3,333 to the pound. 

While the newly appointed officers were enlisting and drilling 
their men, the colony authorities were endeavoring to gather 
supplies for their subsistence. Some flour obtained by the 
commissary was seized by the commander of the British ship 
stationed at Newport, and other difficulties were met with. 
Finally, however, preparations were sufficiently forwarded to 
permit a part at least of the force to take the field. 

Although Colonel James Angell had written on the 28th of 
April that men were enlisting fast in the Army of Observation, it 
is evident that considerable delay was experienced in completing 



"special command" of Major Daniel Hitchcock, and the Train of Artillery, 
which had been commanded by Captain Daniel Tillinghast, with Captain- 
lieutenant John Crane second in command. These two companies were 
consolidated 22nd April with Daniel Tillinghast as colonel", Daniel Hitchcock 
as lieut. -colonel, John Crane, major, and Levi Hall, captain. Previous to 
December, 1774, Hitchcock had been major of the ist Providence County regi- 
ment, to which belonged the Johnston company commanded by Captain Israel 
Angell. The latter 's ensign, Emor Olney, was one of the deputies to the May 
session of the Assembly. 



Commission as Major in the Army of Observation 
Original in Pension Bureau, Washington 



74 



lel Angell 



the senior regiment, having 
of the Colony, Provi- 

eutenant-Colonel, Ezekiel 

Captain-lieutenants, Simeon 

<ny), Stephen Kimball (of the 

and John Field (of the Major's 

k'aterman, John Angell (of the 

ChristoolitT Olnev. Jeremiah 



required ot each man read rn part 

1 in his Majesty's service, and in the 

1 Rhode Island, for the preservation' of the 

" The term of enlistment was to the last 



■/.■)■ 

r.f the 



l^^-ilisted rnen f.f the t^racie qf nrivcite received ao shillings a 
■vi,.: rtoismriacW .u^wSt iXK^r^SuW 1^"^^'^^ i ? Dav was in Rhode 



English sterlin 



.1 
>inted o* 
luthorit: 



and ot 



'lonel James Angell 



'"ssed in dollars 

■■-■z and drilling 

to gather 

' by the 

: ^h ship 

t.-re met with. 

forwarded to 

J. ^ 

I en on the 28th of 

.' of Observation, it 

enced in completing 





nand ' 


' of Major D;i and the Train of Artillery, 






I'^mded by C__., .1 Tillinghast, with Captain- 


lien 




second in command. These two companies were 


con 




svith Daniel T'"^"- ' ' Daniel Hitchcock 


as '■■ 




^rane, major. tin. Previous to 

■ County regi- 

aptain Israel 

ngii, Eraor Olney , was one <jI ihc deputies to the May 




■y c — ^.- - . 



A. 



Military Life 75 

the various companies. Not until the officers had been com- 
missioned was it possible to proceed properly with the organi- 
zation. This was the 8th of May. Reverend Ezra Stiles in his 
diary states that enlistments began in Newport on the loth of 
May, and that on the 23d the first public parade of recruits, 
under Captain Tew, took place and that volunteers were called 
for. 

The first of the Rhode Island troops to reach Boston were 
companies from the Providence County regiment. They were 
soon joined by the Train of Artillery.' 

Lieutenant-Colonel Miller of Warren may have reached Camp 
as early as the companies from Providence County. If so, it is 
likely his was the only company from Church's regiment which 
was then in Camp. From the fact that neither Colonel Hitch- 
cock nor his second in command, Lieutenant Colonel Cornell, 
reached camp prior to May 28th, and that it would have been 
unlikely that any part of his regiment would have been ordered to 
march unless accompanied by a field officer of the regiment, it 
follows that Major Angell must have been the first field officer of 
that regiment and of the brigade to take the field. If, as seems 
likely, he was in command of several companies of Hitchcock's 
regiment, already in camp when Lieutenant Colonel Miller 
brought in his detachment of Church's regiment, the latter would 
assume command, over both Major Angell's force and that of 
Major Crane's. He retained command until the arrival of 
Colonel Hitchcock on the 28th of May. 

Perhaps it will never be known to whom belongs the 
honor of having commanded the first Rhode Island troops to 
arrive before Boston, but that it was Angell can hardly be 
doubted. 

Drake in History of Roxbury, p. 407, repeats the statement that 
while stationed at Roxbury, that part now Jamaica Plain, the 
Rhode Islanders were billeted upon the inhabitants, and some 

' The Artillery had the advantage of being fully organized and were a 
disciplined body, while the infantry were recruits, and the companies to which 
they were assigned but newly organized and officered with men with little more 
experience than themselves. It was commanded by Major Crane, and in the 
original organization appears to have been attached to the regiment com- 
manded by Colonel Hitchcock. None of Vamum's regiment apparently had 
reached the camp when General Greene himself arrived. 



76 Israel Angell 

were at Deacon Nathaniel Weld's and some at Joseph Curtis 's in 
Centre Street. This may have been true of the first arrivals, but 
the Rhode Island contingent did not lack for tentage, and at that 
season of the year, even had facilities existed in that neighbor- 
hood to billet so large a force, would certainly have camped in the 
open. The officers we learn from Colonel Miller's epistles to his 
wife were quartered in the house formerly the residence of Francis 
Bernard, a former royal governor of Massachusetts, and which 
immediately preceding hostilities was the residence of the second 
Sir William Pepperrell. The location was both pleasant and 
healthful, in close proximity to Jamaica Pond. The hot-house 
on the estate was utilized as a magazine for the Rhode Island 
artillery. 

No wonder that the demoralization existing among the 
Massachusetts forces, and even in the Connecticut regiments, 
who were their nearest neighbors, affected the morale of the 
newly raised force from Rhode Island. The men were generally 
entirely ignorant of the first principles of military training. 
Some had had a few days drill as members of an "Independent 
Company"; others knew only what little they had picked up in 
the worse than useless militia trainings. A very few had had 
experience in the old French War, had, perhaps, served in the 
British army or navy, both of which branches of the service 
obtained many recruits in the colonies. Discipline was so lax 
that it was no wonder that on Saturday, 3d June, when General 
Greene reached the Rhode Island camp he found it in "great 
commotion," the men "a factious set," and the officers unable to 
control them. He related that several companies with clubbed 
muskets were on the point of starting for home, the commissaries 
driven off, and there existing an ' ' excitement which in a few days 
more would have been fatal to the campaign." At that time 
Varnum and his regiment, which contained perhaps a larger 
proportion of men who had had military training than the other 
regiments, had not arrived in camp. Greene wrote to hurry them 
on, hoping their influence would help settle matters. However, 
in forty-eight hours he found the situation materially changed. 
He does not state what were the especial causes which had 
produced this demoralization among the Rhode Islanders, but it 
may be suspected that it was in part due to the absence of the 



Military Life n 

commanding officer of the brigade, and the fact that before 
leaving the colony no arrangement had been made regarding the 
relative rank of the field officers of the regiments. In fact the 
Act creating the Army of Observation had stipulated that when 
the brigade was formed the different regiments should alternate 
in taking the right of the line, and that the rank of the officers 
should correspond. There was a gross neglect in supplying 
provisions, and undoubtedly the commissaries were under 
suspicion. Moreover, the Rhode Island troops were not under 
the command of General Ward, except so far as their officers 
chose to cooperate with him. It was not until the 28th of June, 
eleven days after the battle of Bunker Hill, that the General 
Assembly voted that the Army of Observation, which had been 
enlisted "in his Majesty's service," be placed under the command 
of the Commander in Chief of the American Army stationed in 
Massachusetts Bay. 

Greene was summoned to attend a meeting of general officers 
held at Headquarters at Cambridge, 5th June, and joined with 
Putnam and Spencer of Connecticut in accepting the authority 
of Ward as Commander in Chief. 

In the meantime, Major Angell and the field officers present 
were busily engaged in attempting to teach the recruits the school 
of the soldier, and to shake their organizations into shape. 
G. W. Greene, the biographer of General Nathanael Greene, 
asserts that many among the officers of the brigade had been 
taught their drill by the drill-master of the Kentish Guards, 
Daniel Box, a former sergeant of the British Army. 

Officers' and non-commissioned officers' school was held 
daily in the Rhode Island brigade, and at four o'clock the bat- 
talions were mustered, paraded, and instructed. Colonel 
Hitchcock's orderly book for this period is quoted in Life of 
General Greene. Under 8th June is found the following order : 

Colonel Hitchcock's regiment (will) parade on Wednesday 
every week, precisely at half after three o'clock and march around 
the Square. The Colonel expects, in that parade, that every 
officer appear in his uniform, and that care is taken by the officers 
that every soldier be clean, and as neatly dressed as possible; and 
that no one who has breeches be permitted to wear trousers, nor 
to parade without having on his stockings and shoes; and that. 



78 Israel Angell 

during the march, no soldier be permitted to talk. As the regi- 
ment has gained honor from their regular performance of exercise, 
'tis fully expected by the Colonel that the officers spare no pains 
to instruct themselves in the exercise. 

It was not long before the Rhode Island brigade was con- 
sidered to be one of the most soldierly organizations in the Army, 
and on the 28th of June, Greene wrote that the Rhode Islanders, 
"though raw, irregular, and undisciplined" were "under much 
better government than any around Boston." He 
found occasion, however, to severely criticize some of the officers, 
captains as well as those of lower rank, who neglected their duty, 
"some through fear of offending their soldiers, some through 
laziness, and some through obstinacy." "This," he continues, 
"makes the task of the field officers very laborious." 

Rhode Island troops did not participate in the battle of 
Bunker Hill.^ Nevertheless on that day they were under fire, 
their first experience. During the action at Charlestown, the 
troops at Roxbury were prepared to resist any attempt of the 
enemy to attack the Roxbury lines. The Rhode Island brigade 
was drawn up just within reach of the British guns on the neck, 
probably near the meeting-house in the present Elio t Square, or 
nearer Dudley Street. The fortifications at Roxbury were 
designed to close the Neck, the only approach to Boston over- 
land, and consisted of redoubts on the Neck, about the Bay, 
which then covered a wide expanse, and a strong fort on the hill 
where now stands the Cochituate Stand-pipe. This fort was 
out of range of the enemy's guns. Stephen Olney of Angell's 
battalion relates that it was with great difficulty that the officers 
could keep the men, unaccustomed to shot and shell, in ranks, 
and that they were not long kept in this exposed situation, 
perhaps originally chosen to give them a needed experience. 

' General Greene was in Rhode Island the day of the battle. Hastening 
to camp, he found the troops "in high spirits." A detachment from Vamum's 
regiment had been ordered to Prospect Hill to dig entrenchments. Reverend 
Ezra Stiles, noting that none of the Rhode Island troops were in the battle, 
gives the personal experience of Reverend Mr. Martin, later chaplain in a 
Rhode Island regiment, who had accompanied Colonel Prescott. Warner 
warned Prescott early in the day to send for reenforcements, but the latter 
delayed until after the attack had begun. 



Military Life 79 

News soon reached the Army that Congress had appointed a 
Commander in Chief.' As early as i6th May the Provincial 
Congress of Massachusetts had asked the Continental Congress 
to take the regulation and general direction of the army collect- 
ing for the general defense. President Hancock presented this 
to Congress on the 2d June. Washington was appointed 15th 
June. He reached Cambridge 2d July, and the next day formally 
took command. On the loth of July he wrote to Hancock: 

The troops raised in New Hampshire, with a regiment from 
Rhode Island, occupy Winter Hill, a part of those from Con- 
necticut, under General Putnam, are on Prospect Hill. The 
troops in this town are entirely of the Massachusetts: the 
remainder of the Rhode Island men are at Sewall's farm. 
Two regiments of Connecticut and nine of Massachusetts are 
at Roxbury.^ 

On 4th July, General Greene sent a "detachment of two 
hundred men, commanded by a colonel, a lieut. -colonel, and 
major, with a letter of address, to welcome his Excellency to 
camp."^ He does not give the names of the officers but it is evi- 
dent the detachment was selected from the three regiments, and 
probably one officer from each. The same day Greene received 
instructions from Rhode Island that that colony had placed its 
troops under Washington's command. 

On 4th July Washington issued a General Order: 

The Continental Congress having now taken all the troops 
of the several colonies which have been raised, or which may 
hereafter be raised, for the support and defence of the liberties 
of America, into their pay and service, they are now the troops 
of the United Provinces of North America. 

' Congress appointed the following general officers, ranking in the order 
named: Ward, Lee, Schuyler, Putnam, major generals; Pomeroy, Montgomery, 
Wooster, Heath, Spencer, Thomas, Sullivan, Greene, brigadier generals. 
On Washington's arrival he informed Greene that the "idea of Colony troops 
is to be abolished, and that the whole army is to be formed into brigades, and 
the generals to be appointed by Congress." 

^ Sparks: Writings of Washington, 3:18. Sewall's farm covered that part 
of Brookline which lay between the Charles River and Roxbury. A road ran 
directly from there to the place where the Rhode Islanders had encamped. 

3 Letter of Greene, quoted by G. W. Greene, i igg. 



8o Israel Angell 

Pursuant to an order of the preceding day, a return made of 
the Army showed an enrolled force of 16,770 men, exclusive of 
Gridley's regiment of artillery, 489 men, and the Rhode Island 
Company of Artillery, 96 men. The other Rhode Island forces 
were returned as follows: Commissioned officers and staff, 107; 
non-commissioned officers, 108; rank and file present fit for duty, 
1041; absent sick, 18; present sick, 24; on furlough, 2; total 
strength exclusive of artillery, 1181. This included the three 
regiments of Varnum, Hitchcock, and Church. 

The colonels of the three regiments at General Greene's sug- 
gestion drew lots to see what should be their relative rank, and 
Hitchcock was the fortunate man, but never pressed his good 
fortune, as it was evident from the first that Colonel Varnum was 
the officer most favored by Greene and the powers at home. 

The various colonies provided supplies for their own troops. 
General Greene had occasion to complain to the Rhode Island 
authorities of the condition in which supplies arrived. On 
4th July, he wrote: 

About the provisions falling short, some barrells not having much 
more than one half and two thirds the quantity they ought to 
contain. . . . The field officers are continually complaining to 
me of the imposition, and requesting me to have a stop put to it 
as soon as possible. Many people in camp suspect the fidelity of 
the committee. ... A quantity of bread arrived from Provi- 
dence last week, and today the much greater part was mouldy 
and unfit for use. . . . Such bread being brought here begets 
jealousy among the people, and that they are going to be imposed 
upon; and little grievances are sufficient reasons to ground their 
complaints and murmurs upon. . . . There was a quantity of 
beef condemned last week, as being horse meat. . . . Captain 
Jerry Olney, Captain Kitt Olney, and many others came and 
informed me, that the people had a conceit it was horse flesh; 
and they had gone without victuals all day. 

An examination by competent butchers confirmed the sus- 
picions of the men, as to a great portion of the beef. This inci- 
dent is suggestive of what may have been happening before the 
General arrived at the camp, and is likely to have been the cause 
of the dissatisfaction he found so evident. 

Greene was obliged to protest against the sale of liquor 



Military Life 8i 

within the limits of the camp,'' and the orderly book of Colonel 
Hitchcock shows that infractions of discipline were not infre- 
quent and were severely punished. He described Varnum and 
Hitchcock as excellent disciplinarians. 

On the 5th July Washington visited Roxbury, inspecting the 
defenses, and inspected the Rhode Island camp.^ He again 
visited Roxbury on the 13th. On Tuesday, the i8th July, 1775, 
a proclamation from the Continental Congress was read to the 
troops. 

General Lee was much pleased with the Rhode Island brigade. 
On the 20th July he wrote to Dr. Benjamin Rush: 

Upon my Soul, the materials here (I mean the private men) 
are admirable, had they proper uniforms, arms, and proper offi- 
cers, their zeal, youth, bodily strength, good humour and dex- 
terity, must make 'em an invincible army. The Rhode Islanders 
are well off in the article of officers and the young officers of the 
other Provinces are willing . . . but from the old big wigs libera 
nos Domine. 

On the 22 d July Washington rearranged the forces. General 
Greene was- given a brigade, composed of his three Rhode Island 
regiments and four Massachusetts regiments.^ This brigade, to 
be posted at Prospect Hill, with General Sullivan's brigade, 
posted at Winter Hill, formed the left wing or second division of 
the army, and was under the command of Major General Charles 

' Journals of the Prov. Cong, of Mass., p. 461. 

^ Greene refers to his expected visit in his letter of 4th July, as to take place 
6th July. 

3 G. O. 22 July, 1775. . . . That Colonel Stark's, Colonel Poor's, Colonel 
Read's New Hampshire, Colonel Nixon's, Colonel Mansfield's, Colonel Doo- 
little's Massachusetts, be formed into another brigade under the command of 
Brigadier General Sullivan, and posted on Winter Hill; that Colonel Vamum's, 
Colonel Hitchcock's, Colonel Church's Rhode Island, Colonel Whitcomb's, 
Colonel Gardner's, Colonel Jona. Brewer's Massachusetts, be formed into 
another brigade to be commanded by Brigadier General Greene, and posted 
upon Prospect Hill." A day later Little's regiment was joined to the brigade. 
Glover's Orderly Books are in the possession of the Essex Institute. They 
begin with an entry of 30th June, 1775. The first book extends through 14th 
September, 1775. The second book covers the period from 15th September, 
1775. to 1st January, 1776. Extracts have been printed in Essex Institute 
Hist. Col. 5. 
7 



82 Israel Angell 

Lee. On the 25th the Rhode Islanders moved to Prospect Hill, 
and according to a letter written by Lieut. -Colonel Miller were 
posted to defend the breastworks there. 

The Reverend William Emerson, whose own quarters were at 
the foot of Prospect Hill, has left a description of the camp soon 
after its reorganization. He wrote: 

The strictest government is taking place, and great distinc- 
tion is made between officers and soldiers. Everyone is made to 
know his place, and to keep in it, or be tied up and receive thirty 
or forty lashes according to his crime. Thousands are at work 
every day from four to eleven o'clock in the morning. ... It 
is very diverting to walk among the camps. They are as differ- 
ent in their form as the owners are in their dress ; and every tent 
is a portraiture of the temper and tastes of the persons who 
encamp in it. Some are made of boards, and some of sailcloth. 
Some partly of the one and partly of the other. Again, others 
are of stone and turf, brick or brush. Some are thrown up in a 
hurry; others curiously wrought with doors and windows, done 
with Wreathes and withes, in the manner of a basket. Some are 
your proper tents and marquees, looking like a regular camp of 
the enemy. In these are the Rhode Islanders, who are furnished 
with tent equipage, and everything in the most exact English 
style. ^ 

Up to this time the health of the camp had been fairly good, 
but in August Greene wrote that "our troops are very sickly 
with dysentery." 

During the remainder of the summer, the various regiments 
in the army were gradually instructed in the fundamental duties 
of the soldier. Much of this work, in his own regiment, devolved 
upon Major Angell. 

The two Rhode Island regiments which were to form part of 
the permanent army were numbered 12 and 14. Varnum suc- 
ceeded in obtaining for his regiment the lower number. This 
affected the relative standing of all of the field officers in both 
regiments. 

During July and August several officers whose conduct on 
the 17th of June, and on later occasions, was open to criticism, 
appeared before court-martial. One of the courts, set for 
the 14th August, by Orders of the preceding day, was to try 

' Sparks 's Washington, 3: 491. 



Military Life 83 

Colonel John Mansfield, "accused by three of his officers for high 
crimes and misdemeanor." General Greene was president of 
the court, and Colonel Varnum, Lieut. -Colonel Miller, and 
Major Angell were members. The sentence in his case was 
announced in General Orders of 15th September, "for remissness 
and backwardness in discharge of duty at the late engagement 
on Bunker Hill" he was found guilty of a breach of the 49th 
Article of War, and was in consequence cashiered and found 
unfit to serve in the Continental army. Colonel Mansfield's 
trial attracted much attention. A similar sentence was approved 
in the case of Captain Christopher Gardner of Varnum's regiment 
on the 2d of August, who was found guilty of deserting his post. 
Colonel Church was president of the court. What the occasion 
was is not told, but some chagrin was caused in Hitchcock's 
regiment by reason of Gardner being at first described as of 
that regiment. So far as the records have been recovered there 
is not a single instance known of an officer in the latter regiment, 
from its first organization in 1775 to the time Israel Angell 
retired from its command in 1781, who was court martialed for 
misbehavior in the presence of the enemy. 

Not the least of Washington's troubles from the moment he 
took command of the army, were 1 questions relating to recom- 
mendations for commissions, settlement of seniority in rank, and 
promotions. The Act passed by the Rhode Island Assembly 
authorizing the Army of Observation provided that in turn "each 
regiment be placed in said brigade upon the flanks, and in the 
center, so that perfect equality of rank be preserved, and that a 
similar equality of rank be preserved among the field officers of 
different regiments." 

"Rules and Articles" formed by the Continental Congress 
for the government of the "twelve United Colonies" were dis- 
tributed 9th August, to every regimental commander, who was to 
see that all officers and soldiers subscribed to them, after which 
each company commander was to keep the roll signed by his 
company. (G. O., Aug. 9.) A fortnight later these were called 
for by Headquarters to enable a correct list of officers to be 
obtained, to whom commissions were to be issued. It was 
announced, however, that those officers holding already a com- 
mission from their colony, in the same grade in which they were 



84 Israel Angell 

to be commissioned in the Continental army, were not to apply 
for a new commission. The commissions were finally delivered 
the last few days of September. 

On the 1 8th of August a return of the army showed that Major 
Angell and all the other officers of both regiments were present, 
and that the 12th Regiment, having a paper strength of 401 
men, had 308 present fit for duty, while the 14th Regiment, 
numbering 445 men, had 342 present fit for duty. On the 23d 
September another return was made, showing all the officers 
present except Lieut. -Colonel Crary, and that the strength of 
the regiments was somewhat more nearly equalized. The 12th 
now had a strength of 422 men, of whom 362 were present fit 
for duty, and the 14th had 421 men, of whom 310 were present 
fit for duty. Advantage had been freely taken of the opportunity 
to visit home on furlough, and absence from camp, either on 
furlough or unauthorized, became more and more a matter of 
concern. 

On the 15th of October a Committee of Congress, one of 
whom was Benjamin Franklin, enlarged by the presence of sev- 
eral delegates from the New England colonies, met at Washing- 
ton's Headquarters, and after deliberations of a week, arrived 
at a plan for the reorganization of the army. On the 22d a 
General Order was issued requesting officers to inform the 
Commander in Chief if they would continue in the service. 
Three days later attention was called to the fact that the decla- 
rations must be explicit, without reservation, that officers would 
remain until the last day of the year 1776. Major Angell was 
among those who agreed to remain. 

On nth December Washington issued a General Order: 

The Congress thought proper to increase the pay of Captains 
and Subalterns of the Continental army and as uniformity and 
decency in dress are essentially necessary in the appearance and 
regularity of an army, his Excellency recommends it earnestly to 
the officers to get themselves in a uniform dress. The field 
officers of each new corps will set the example by clothing 
themselves in a regimental of their respective corps. The 
General by no means recommends or desires officers to run 
into costly or expensive regimentals. No matter how plain 
or coarse so that they are but uniform in their color, cut, and 
fashion. 



Military Life 85 

On Prospect Hill the construction of barracks had proceeded 
with as much rapidity as possible but in November, when orders 
were given to occupy the barracks, many were as yet unfinished. 
General Greene wrote as late as December, "many of the troops 
are yet in tents, and will be for some time, especially the officers." 
No word of complaint concerning the discomforts of his life is 
found in the only letter of this period we have of Israel Angell. 
He wrote from Prospect Hill to his brother under date of the ist 
of December, but his concern was for the people of Rhode Island, 
who were even then finding fault because salt had risen in price. 
The condition at Prospect Hill was such that Greene wrote, 
"many regiments have been obliged to eat their provisions raw 
for want of fuel to cook it . . . (for want of fuel) our sufferings 
have been inconceivable. The barracks have been greatly 
delayed for want of stuff. . . . The fatigues of the campaign, 
the suffering for want of wood and clothing, have made a multi- 
tude of soldiers heartily sick of service." 

As the enlistments began to expire, and men insisted upon 
leaving for home, militia were brought into the camp to take 
their places, but this temporary expedient did not serve to allay 
the fears of the general officers lest January ist, 1776, would 
find them with only a skeleton army. General Lee, who com- 
manded the division to which Major Angell belonged, was 
particularly outspoken in his opinion of the men who would 
not remain. There is good reason to think that his language 
and acts with regard to this matter served rather to repel than 
attract reenlistments. He went so far as to post before his 
quarters a copy of a proclamation, which the men were given to 
understand would be circulated along the route they were to 
follow in returning home. ' 

A general return of the army was made as of 30th December, 
1775, and from this we learn that in the 14th Regiment, com- 
manded by Colonel Daniel Hitchcock,^ there were 16 line 

'See Conn. Hist. Soc. Col., 7, where Lee's address to the "Publicans 
and other Housekeepers residing on the different roads betwixt Cambridge, 
New London and Hartford " is printed in full. The Connecticut troops whose 
enlistment expired left camp the loth December. Many had reenlisted, and 
many more reenlisted after having visited their homes. Nowhere has mention 
been made of the Rhode Island troops doing less than was expected of them. 

^ On the 1st January, 1776, the officer personnel of the regiment was as 



86 Israel Angell 

officers, 12 staff officers, 19 sergeants, 15 musicians, 383 rank 
and file, of whom only 255 were present fit for duty. This gave 
a total regimental strength of 445. ' 

The total strength of the army was 16,786; present fit for 
duty of the rank and file, 11,752. In addition there were two 
artillery corps; the Providence Company of Artillery, Major 
John Crane, having a total strength of 95, and the regiment of 
artillery commanded by Colonel Richard Gridley, numbering 
483 men. 

The new year opened with the announcement by General 
Washington of the organization of the new Continental army, 
and on that day there was raised over Headquarters at Cambridge 
a new flag bearing seven red and six white stripes, emblematic of 
the thirteen colonies, and also bearing the British union, indica- 
tive that as yet there had been no severance of the ties which 
bound the colonies to the empire. This flag was raised the same 
day at Prospect Hill. A British observer, Lieutenant Carter, 
quoted by Frothingham, noted its appearance at Prospect Hill, 
and that it was saluted with 13 guns and as many cheers. This 
flag took the place of the old flag with a red field. 

In the reorganization the Rhode Island regiments lost their 
former numbers, and became the 9th (Varnum's) and the nth 
(Hitchcock's) Continental regiments. Major Angell received 
his Continental Commission on the 4th February. ^ 

The troops had orders in November to occupy barracks pre- 
pared for them, but it was not until winter had set in that 

follows: Daniel Hitchcock, colonel; Ezekiel Cornell, lieutenant-colonel; Israel 
Angell, major; Jeremiah Olney, William Tew, Stephen Kimball, Francis 
Symonds, Silas Talbot, Coggeshall Olney, Ephraim Bowen, John Spur, 
captains. The staff officers were, Oliver Noble, chaplain, Samuel Tenney, 
surgeon, Cyprian Sterry, quartermaster. The officer personnel of the regiment 
commanded by Colonel Varnum was, James Mitchell Varnum, colonel; Archi- 
bald Crary, lieutenant-colonel; Christopher Smith, major; Ebenezer Flagg, 
Elijah Lewis, Nathaniel Hawkins, Oliver Clark, Thomas Cole, John Lane, 
Joshua Read, John Gooch, captains; Ebenezer David, chaplain; John Singer 
Dexter, adjutant; Clark Brown, quartermaster; Joseph Joslyn, surgeon. 

' The 1 2th Regiment (Varnum's) showed a total of 488; of the rank and 
file but 307 (out of 420) were present fit for duty. These returns may be seen 
in Force, American Archives. 

' G. O. ; that General Greene and the colonels of his brigade repair to Head- 
quarters to receive the commissions for their officers. Glover 's Orderly Book. 






Commission as Major, nth Regiment of Foot 
Original in Pension Bureau, Washington 





86 ael Angeli 

oiTi sere:eants, 15 musicians, 383 rank 

-ent fit for duty. This gave 

my was 16,786; present fit for 

-'. In addition there were two 

Company of Artillery, Ma^or 

•trength of 95, and the regiment of 

'lonel Richard Gridley, numbering 



The new year o|)ened with the announcement by General 
W: organization of the new Continental army, 

ana . .. x e was raised over Headquarters at Cambridge 

a new flag bearing seven red and six white stripes, emblematic of 
the thirteen colonies, and also bearing the British union, indica- 
tive that as yet there had been no severance of the ties which 
bound the colonies to the empire. This flag was raised the same 
dsroo"^ Bii^nemrgS^I idiiA .mi^H. ^^y-P^^"^99- ^^:mt Carter, 
' ' ■ ' noJ^niririj^W ,!jfi9-ttjfT rroisn')*! m Ififtt^arrO .'it.oct Hill, 

This 





t their 




•e nth 




ceived 


barracks pre- 


^d set 


in that 



'i lonel; Israel 
•all, Francis 
Syinouds, Si).: Bowen, John Spur, 

captains. Th- ;ilain, Samuel Tenney, 

surgeon, Cypnan Sterry . er personnel of the regiment 

coiTimanded by Colonel \'.i^. . .iitchell Varnum, colonel; Archi- 

liald Crary, lieutenant-coloi < Smith, major; Ebcnezer Flagg, 

Elliiah Lewis, Nathaniel HawK;: ;, s/.:\e! '.,lark, Thomas Colo. Jphn Lane, 
Joshua R:-ad. John Gooch, captains; Ebenezer David, chaobm: John Singer 
Dexter, ;i ^lark Brown, quartermaster; j n. 

' Th' nent (Vamum's) showed a '• ink and 

ere present fit for duty. Th^ nay be seen 

izes. 
eral Greene and th ■ air to Head- 

' c^'^tmmissionsf'-"- erly Book. 



Military Life 87 

Major Angell exchanged his "marquiss tent" for a rough 
hut. With cold weather came rumors that with the freezing 
of the bay and river an attack was to be expected. This failed 
to materialize, and with the approach of the colder weather of 
February signs of activity in the American camp gave warning that 
effective steps were to be taken to end the siege. However, the bay 
remained open. Washington now determined to seize Dorchester 
Heights. A cannonade begun on the night of the 2d of March 
continued until the 5th, and on the night of the 4th Dorchester 
Heights were occupied. High winds on the afternoon of the 5th 
prevented the British from embarking the force intended to 
assault the American entrenchments. On the Cambridge side, 
ready to embark in boats to cross the bay as soon as the enemy 
had begun their attack at Dorchester, was General Putnam in 
command of the two divisions of Greene and Sullivan. With 
Greene were his two regiments of Rhode Islanders, and with 
them Major Angell. They waited but for the prearranged signal. 
Greene was to land at Barton's Point, or a little to the south, ^ 
and having secured that post, were to force the works on the 
Neck, and let in the troops from Roxbury. Night came with 
further opportunity for strengthening the hastily constructed 
redoubts on the Heights. So strong was the position that 
General Howe determined upon the evacuation of the place. A 
tacit understanding between Howe and Washington caused the 
latter to refrain from attack as long as no damage was done to 
the town, and preparations continued for the evacuation of 
Boston, which, however, had to be stimulated by activities on 
the part of the besieging force. On the 17th of March the last 
of the British forces embarked, and the fleet dropped down the 
harbor. The same day detachments of the American army 
entered the town, the command being taken by General Putnam. 

' A cove with flats extended south of the Point, covering the region immedi- 
ately north of Cambridge street. There were earth works protecting the 
landing places, both at Barton Point and the lower slopes of Beacon Hill. 
Had the attempt been made it is probable hard fighting would have resulted. 
Only well disciplined and determined men could have been successful, which 
shows the reliance Washington placed on the troops selected. Sullivan wrote 
to John Adams a few days after the 1 7th, that boats could be had sufficient only 
for four thousand men, and the men were paraded ready to embark. See 
Mass. Hist. Soc. Proc, March, 1876. 



88 Israel Angell 

No general entry of the victorious troops was made. Small-pox 
was prevalent in the town, and the occupying force was care- 
fully selected from among those who had had the disease. 

Washington wrote to Joseph Reed from Cambridge, 19th 
March, 1776: "I have already marched the riflemen and five 
regiments for New York; I cannot spare more, whilst the fleet 
hover in our harbour. So soon as they are fairly gone, more will 
follow with all expedition, as I shall do myself, as I suppose 
New York to be the object in view." He wrote again on the 
25th, giving his opinion that the British were but waiting a 
favorable opportunity to "retrieve their disgrace before they go 
off." Six regiments had been detached to New York, and the 
term of enlistment of ten regiments expired on the first of April. 
In a letter of the 28th he mentions that the British fleet, except 
a vessel or two, had left Nantasket, that six more regiments from 
his own army would immediately march to New York, and a 
day or two after that his whole force, except three or four regi- 
ments left to guard Boston, and that in three or four days he, 
himself, would follow. The following day, 29th March, orders 
were given for Varnum's, Hitchcock's, Reed's, and Bailey's regi- 
ments to march on Monday morning (ist April) at sunrise. 
Brigadier-General Greene' to take command of the brigade. 

The people of Rhode Island since the evacuation of Boston 
had been apprehensive that the enemy would seek to occupy 
Newport, and Governor Cooke had made urgent representations 
to Washington of the need of Continental troops for the protec- 
tion of that colony. This had not been, and could not be, 
acceded to. Washington also denied the request that the army 
moving from Boston to New York should be marched through 
Rhode Island, in order that if the much-feared attack took 
place, there might be a force at hand to repel the invasion. 
The route of the troops was by way of Waltham, Sudbury, or 
Framingham, Grafton, to the Connecticut line, and thence to 
Norwich and New London, where transports were to be taken 
for New York. This was the route which Greene's brigade 
expected to follow, notwithstanding that the Rhode Islanders 
were in that brigade. 

' General Greene wrote on the 24th March, to Colonel Joseph Nightingale, 
at Providence, "Rhode Island has as good troops as are on the continent. ' ' 



Military Life 89 

However, on receipt of an express from Governor Cooke, 
bringing the tidings that a man-of-war had just arrived in 
Newport harbor, and that twenty-seven sail of vessels had been 
sighted off Seconnet Point, Washington ordered General Greene 
to proceed with his brigade to Providence. 

The march thither was uneventful, though without doubt 
hastened by the anxiety of the commanding general and his 
Rhode Island troops to reach their homes, now as they thought 
threatened by the enemy. This anxiety was relieved, how- 
ever, by learning en route that the report of the arrival of a 
British fleet off Newport was a false alarm. 

Colonel Little's Orderly Book, quoted by Johnston,^ gives 
the order of General Greene for the escort to Washington, who 
had followed the brigade to Providence, and whose visit was 
quite an event in the life of the town. He had left Cambridge 
on the 4th and arrived at Providence the following day. The 
Governor met him there and called out the various independent 
companies, cadets, grenadiers, and light infantry, of the town, 
which with the two Continental regiments formed Washing- 
ton's escort. 

Hitchcock's regiment was undoubtedly chosen as part of the 
escort because of its being known originally as the Providence 
County regiment, and most of its officers, if not the men, were 
residents of that town and county. Little's was chosen perhaps 
as a compliment to Massachusetts, for it is not likely that it 
excelled Varnum's regiment in military appearance. It is also 
possible that an opportunity had been given many of the officers 
in Varnum's regiment, and as many of the men as could be 
trusted to report promptly the following day to resume the march, 
to visit their homes in Kent County. 

The march for Norwich was resumed by part of the brigade 
on the 5th, and the following day those who had taken part in 
the parade also left Providence. The road followed was what 
then was considered the best road. For many years it was the 
Post Road. It 1 ed out of Providence at the corner of Westminster 
and Stokes streets in Olneyville, thence it passed along the 
present line of Plainfield Street, formerly the boundary between 
Johnston and Cranston, to South Scituate and to the Connecticut 

' Johnston, Campaign of 1776, p. 62. See page 46. 



90 Israel Angell 

boundary, at what is now Oneco.' The Hne of march was 
therefore not far from Major Angell's homestead, which was on 
the Scituate Road. 

The last of the army arrived at New York on the 24th, and 
on that day, the temporary brigading of regiments, made at 
Boston, changed. The whole army was divided into five bri- 
gades, commanded by Generals Heath, Spencer, Sullivan, 
Greene, and Lord Stirling. Heath and Sullivan each had five 
regiments assigned to their brigades, the others but four. Greene 
lost Bailey's regiment. This organization lasted but five days, 
for on the 29th, Sullivan with six regiments having been ordered 
to reinforce the Northern army, the whole army was organized 
as four brigades, and the third, originally Sullivan's, which was 
to defend the Long Island lines at Brooklyn, was given to Greene. 
It was not until the 3d or 4th of May,^ however, that General 
Greene crossed to Long Island with his troops. His command 
then consisted of the regiments commanded by Colonels 
Hitchcock, Varnum, and Little, and Colonel Edward Hand's 
Pennsylvania Riflemen, the nth, 9th, 12th, and ist regiments of 
Foot respectively. 

Hand's regiment was already on Long Island, engaged in 
scouting and patrolling, and was stronger by a hundred men than 
the other regiments in the brigade. The average strength of the 
Rhode Island and Massachusetts regiments was about 380 
officers and men. 

Many of the inhabitants of Long Island were Loyalists; some, 
indeed, were rampant Tories. Through these sympathizers the 
British commander obtained full information of the movements 
and strength of the patriot forces, and of the fortifications they 
were erecting. 

At Red Hook was an important battery, where from the 8th 
August, Colonel Varnum's regiment was posted.^ One of the 
Rhode Islanders stationed there gave to Reverend Ezra Stiles a 
description of the American fortifications, on the construction of 
which the division was constantly engaged. 

' Wood, Post Roads of New England. The distance in Rhode Island was 
twenty-one miles, in Connecticut to Norwich, nineteen miles. 
* See Johnston, Campaign of 1776, p. 65. 
3 Greene's Orders, quoted by Johnston. 



Military Life 91 

East of the neck which led to Red Hook were the Gowanus 
Marshes and the creek, which on the day of the battle was crossed 
by the detachments of Hitchcock's regiment under the command 
of Cornell and Angell in retreat from their exposed position. 

Major Angell was "field officer of the Picquet" on the 8th 
May, and again on the 20th. The 17th was set aside as a day 
of fasting and prayer, as directed by Congress, and by order of 
Washington all duties, except the necessary guard, were dis- 
continued. The troops were ordered to attend the duties of the 
day in a devout and cleanly manner. On the same day, General 
Greene forbade any soldier to mount guard without shoes, recall- 
ing to mind Hitchcock's order of the year before concerning bare- 
foot men on parade. Two days later Hitchcock's regiment was 
reviewed. 

On the 9th July, Washington published a General Order: 

The Continental Congress impelled by the dictates of duty, 
policy, and necessity have been pleased to dissolve the connection 
which subsisted between this country and Great Britain, and to 
declare the colonies of North America, free and Independent 
States — the several Brigades are to be drawn up this evening 
on their respective parades at six o'clock when the declaration of 
Congress, showing the grounds and reasons of the measure is to 
be read with an audible voice. The General hopes that this im- 
portant Point will serve as a fresh incitment to every officer and 
soldier to act with courage and fidelity, as knowing that now the 
Peace and safety of this country depend (under God) solely on 
the success of our arms, and that he is now in the service of a 
state possessed of sufficient power to reward his merit and ad- 
vance him to the highest honor of a free country. 

That evening Hitchcock's regiment was drawn up on the 
beach and listened to the reading of the Declaration of Independ- 
ence. ' To the Rhode Islanders this must have seemed a resound- 
ing echo of the vote of their own General Assembly, which at the 
preceding May session had adopted a resolution releasing the 
inhabitants of that colony from their oaths of allegiance to King 
George. 

There was now and later considerable discontent among the 
officers regarding pay and promotion. A letter of General 

' Narrative of Stephen Olney. 



92 Israel Angell 

Greene to John Adams alludes to the condition of the officers, 
"the very soul of an army." "The field officers in general," 
he wrote, "and the colonels of regiments in particular, think 
themselves grievously burthened upon the present establishment ; 
few, if any, of that rank that are worth retaining in the service 
will continue, if any dependence is to be made upon the discon- 
tent which appears." Again he says, "their pay will not defray 
their expenses." 

General Greene feared that good officers would be lost to 
the army, and in their place less able men appointed: "People 
engaged in the service in the early part of the dispute without 
any consideration of pay reward ; few, if any, thought of its con- 
tinuance ; but its duration will reduce all that have not independ- 
ent fortunes to attend to their family concerns." 

Major Angell was one of those who had volunteered without 
thought of the consequences which a long contest would entail, 
but he never flinched from his duty. Nowhere in diary or letters, 
nor in any family tradition, is there a hint that financial difficul- 
ties or family ties had caused him to contemplate resignation 
from the army, either at this time or during the more trying 
period of the winters at Valley Forge and Morristown. 

On the 1 2th of August, 1776, General Greene requested Wash- 
ington to recommend Colonel Varnum for promotion. • The feel- 
ing engendered by the rivalry between Colonels Varnum and 

• On the 14th Washington wrote to the President of Congress that that 
morning Colonel Varnum had been with him to resign his commission, con- 
ceiving himself greatly injured in not being noticed in the late arrangements 
and promotions of general officers, but upon being remonstrated with had 
consented to remain. On the 25th Varnum wrote to Washington, that "ever 
since I waited upon your Excellency," alluding to the interview of the 14th, 
"expectation of a battle hath continued me in my present command. New 
difficulties arising, I can derive no satisfaction from that quarter, my disgrace 
is unalterably fixed by conferring the 'detur digniori' upon those of inferior 
standing, without the least competition of superior merit. Was promotion in 
the army a favour, my tongue and pen should be silent; but it is the just 
reward of merit and rank. My continuance can be of no possible advantage. 
The variety of incidents that may happen in an engagement will possibly 
demand my submission to the orders of a Brigadier General, whose standing till 
lately, hath been subordinate to mine . . . how can you deny me the only 
consolation left, your permission to retire from a service no longer eligible." 
The letters and Order referred to may be found in Force, i : 950, 1067, 1 151. 



Military Life 93 

Hitchcock, both worthy officers, does not appear reflected in 
any of the writings of Major Angell, and it is very doubtful indeed 
if Hitchcock's statement, that if Varnum was preferred to him, 
his regiment at the end of the campaign would refuse to reenlist, 
had any basis other than his own fancy. Certainly Major 
Angell had no such feeling. Officers had already learned that 
promotion was not, just as Varnum stated, always conferred 
because of superior merit. As soon as the principle of promotion 
by reason of seniority, the unfit being eliminated, is abandoned, 
favoritism steps in. How Greene came to regard these jealousies 
is shown by his letter to Marion, of 1782: "Rank is not what 
constitutes the good officer, but good conduct. Substantial ser- 
vices give reputation, not captious disputes. A captain may be 
more respectable than a general. Rank is nothing unless ac- 
companied with worthy actions." (Greene, Life of Greene, 3: 

453-) 

In the meantime the long expected British fleet arrived. 
Each day brought several vessels, and on the 29th June, forty- 
five sail anchored off the Hook. By the 2d of July the number 
had increased to 130 vessels. Sir William Howe had arrived 
a week before, and these ships brought the troops who had sailed 
for Halifax after the evacuation of Boston. The British were 
landed on Staten Island. A fortnight later Admiral Howe 
arrived with reinforcements from England, and on the ist of 
August, Clinton and Comwallis returned from their unsuccessful 
expedition against the Carolinas. On the 12th the last of the 
British expeditionary forces arrived — Hessians and a regiment of 
Guards. The fleet in the Narrows now consisted of more than 
four hundred ships. Never before had England sent forth so 
powerful a force. Of the 31,000 men constituting the army, 
about one-fourth were Hessians. To oppose this veteran army, 
of whom 25,000 were fit for duty, Washington had nearly 19,000 
effectives, of whom about two thirds were from New England, 
800 from Rhode Island. 

Upon Greene's promotion to major general, his brigade had 
been given to John Nixon, who the same day, had been pro- 
moted from colonel to brigadier general, and Heard's brigade of 
five New Jersey regiments reenforced the division on Long 
Island. On 15th August the entire division, of two brigades, 



94 Israel Angell 

numbered 2900 men fit for duty, to which in a few days were 
added about 600 militia from Long Island and Connecticut. 

These changes in command brought old associates together. 
When Major Angell was stationed at Prospect Hill he had seen 
much of both Nixon and Sullivan. The Continental regiments 
had confidence in each other, but they well knew how little 
dependence could be placed upon militia and new levies, who 
might fight with the desperation of enthusiasm, or become panic- 
stricken. Tests were soon to come. 

On the 22d August the British began disembarking troops at 
Gravesend and occupied Flatbush. Immediately the intelli- 
gence was received by Washington, he sent six regiments compris- 
ing about 1800 men to reenforce Sullivan, and as it happened it 
was a part of this force which on the day of the battle held the 
left of the line, and which was outflanked by General Cornwallis. 
An immediate attack was expected. General Sullivan issued the 
following order 23d August : 

The men not to turn out to their alarm posts this afternoon, 
but to get two days provisions ready, and to be at their alarm 
posts to-morrow morning by 3 o'clock in order for action. 

Col^ Miles and Ransom's reg*^ to take possession of the 
Bedford Road this night. Col. Ransom's regt. to march at 5 
o'clock. Col. Miles' regt. is on the spot. Col? Little's and 
Hitchcock's Regts. to possess the Flatbush road and Col^ 
Johnson's and Martin's to take possession of the road near the 
river. All these rgts. to be at their posts by 6 o'clock. 

All troops within the Department were ordered to wear a 
green "bough or branch of a tree " in their hats. 

The force which was relieved by Little's and Hitchcock's 
regiments had during the afternoon a smart skirmish with the 
Hessians who had advanced beyond Flatbush, and drove them 
back through the town. After this the Americans retreated to 
the hills. 

Washington instructed Putnam to man the interior lines with 
the militia and least disciplined troops, while the best men were 
"at all hazards" to prevent the enemy's passing the woods 
and approaching the works. The dependence placed upon 
Hitchcock's regiment, notwithstanding the absence of its colonel, 
is shown by the position assigned to it. 



Military Life 95 

Washington visited the Long Island Hnes on the evening of 
the 26th. In company with Putnam and Sullivan he rode down 
to the outposts near Flatbush and examined the position of the 
enemy. » 

Between eight and nine o'clock General Sullivan rode out to 
the Flatbush pass. Here Major Angell was stationed with his 
battalion. The Hessians had made little attempt to advance 
and the situation was satisfactory. 

In the meantime the British third column had progressed by 
the Jamaica road to a point which before nine o'clock had brought 
them unobserved to Bedford, well in the rear of the American 
left. They had been successful in surprising and capturing the 
only patrol which had been sent out on that road, a party of five 
inexperienced officers, and with the aid of a local guide had had 
no difficulty in making excellent time. Colonel Miles, whose 
duty it was to cover the American left, did not discover this 
flanking movement until the British advance had passed Bedford 
and was actually between him and the Brooklyn lines. After 
slight encounters in the woods Miles, with part of his men, 
surrendered, the others made their way through the woods and 
got back to the American lines, as did the troops stationed at the 
Bedford pass. The firing to their left and back was the first in- 
timation to the troops at Flatbush pass that the enemy were in 
their rear. Sullivan was at this point. To abandon this position 
meant to sacrifice Stirling, to hold it until Stirling had made good 
his withdrawal meant the sacrifice of the force there. The 
pickets with supports were left to hold the Hessians while Sullivan 
turned to attack the British advance in his rear. Most of the 
American commands succeeded in making their way through the 
enemy, with small losses, and regaining the Brooklyn lines. 
Sullivan, however, was cut off, and after some time gave himself 
up. While this retreat was taking place the Hessians made 
their advance on the abandoned posts, and found but little resist- 
ance, which they overcame with the bayonet, and here occurred 
several instances of killing men who had surrendered, which gave 
rise to the stories of a general massacre. Hitchcock's regiment 

'See footnote, p. 153, Johnston, Campaign of 1776. Johnston's account 
of the battle is followed in attempting in these pages to show the part taken 
by Major Angell's battalion of Hitchcock's regiment. 



96 Israel Angell 

left a company to support the pickets. Their loss was trifling, 
although this regiment sustained their full share of the attack. ^ 
They came away in good order. On the day of the battle 
Colonel Hitchcock was not in command of his regiment. He had 
several days before sustained a fall from his horse, which pre- 
vented his performing any active duty for some time. In con- 
sequence his regiment was commanded by the lieutenant-colonel, 
the only other field officer being Major Angell. This was the 
first time the regiment had actually been engaged, although 
during the siege of Boston it had been under the fire of heavy 
guns. The officers and men behaved with the steadiness of 
veteran troops. ^ 

Major Angell expected that Hitchcock's regiment would be 
called upon to repel desperate assaults on Fort Putnam, for it 
was not anticipated that Washington would abandon the Brook- 
lyn defenses without a struggle, nor does it seem that such was 
his intention. Circumstances which rapidly developed brought 
about the decision to move the entire American force from the 
Island. Each regiment was ordered to be drawn up on the 
evening of 29th August, and wait orders. Boats were provided, 
and the embarkation of the troops began. Washington, in per- 
son, superintended the embarkation, and did not leave until 
the last detachment was ready to cross. By seven o'clock the 
American troops were all safely on the New York side. 

Although the retreat from Long Island had been successfully 
accomplished, the position of the army was a precarious one. 
Energetic measures on the part of the enemy might enable them 
to effect a landing in Westchester County, and to command the 
roads passing north from the city. Washington entertained 
the hope he could delay the occupation of the city for a time. 
General Putnam commanded the defences of the city, and 
General Heath the troops to protect Westchester County. 

• The killed and missing in the nth (Hitchcock's) regiment were in the 
companies commanded by Captains Kimball (one missing), Symonds (i killed, 
2 missing), C. Olney (4 missing, one of whom was London Citizen, a negro), and 
Bo wen (i missing). See Campaign oj 1776, p. 180, Documents. 

* With characteristic modesty Israel Angell in his Pension declaration of 
1 8 18, stating his services, simply alludes to his being present at "Red Bank, 
Mudfort, Princeton, etc." Long Island, Harlem, Rhode Island, Springfield, 
were apparently "mere incidents." 



Military Life 97 

Nixon's brigade at once marched to Harlem Heights, where it 
was intended to make a stand, and with the rest of Greene's 
old division took position on the high land on the northerly- 
side of the Hollow Way, extending from the Point of Rocks to 
the River. Thus they were not participants in the unreasonable 
panic which overtook the militia stationed at the point where on 
the 15th September the British made their landing. Fortunately 
for the Americans stationed in the lower part of the island. Gen- 
eral Howe, perhaps expecting a more determined resistance, 
appears to have been diverted from the business directly in hand, 
that of occupying all roads leading from the island, after effecting 
his landing. Moreover, he paused to partake of refreshments 
at Mrs. Robert Murray's, who did all she could to delay his de- 
parture.' While Howe and his staff were dallying at Mrs. 
Murray's, the American troops who formed the garrison of the 
city, by following the Bloomingdale Road, were enabled to gain 
the protection of the partially prepared lines at Harlem. Here 
the two Rhode Island regiments were encamped, somewhat in 
advance of the entrenchments, and on the extreme right near 
the river, northwest of the Point of Rocks. The following morn- 
ing, Washington, who had ridden down to the Point of Rocks, 
conceived the plan of cutting off the enemy with Knowlton's 
Rangers reenforced by three companies of riflemen from 
Weedon's Third Virginia regiment, in the meantime holding 
their attention by a feint attack in the front. A small party of 
volunteers from Nixon's brigade, commanded by Lieutenant 
Colonel Crary of Varnum's regiment, advanced to attack, but 
soon fell back slowly drawing the British after them, while the 
flanking party attempted to get in the rear of the enemy, but 
attacked too early, preventing Knowlton's carrying out the origi- 
nal plan. Reinforcements were sent the enemy, and Washing- 
ton in turn ordered forward detachments from Nixon's brigade, 
as well as other troops. The enemy were driven back about a 
mile to their original post at Bloomingdale, where they were 
strongly reenforced. The main action took place on and north- 
west of the grounds of Columbia University and Barnard College. 
Each side had somewhat less than two thousand men engaged. 

' Regarding this tradition, however, compare Johnston's Battle of Harlem 
Heights, page 39. 

7 



98 Israel Angell 

Washington, not desiring to bring on a general engagement, with- 
drew to his former position. This spirited action, which in its 
various phases lasted more than two hours, although it resulted 
in the death of the gallant Knowlton, and equally brave Major 
Leitch of the Virginians, did much to restore the morale 
of the American army, sujffering from the events of the day before. 

The losses in killed and wounded on both sides, for the num- 
bers engaged, were heavier than in the battle of Long Island. 
The loss fell heaviest on the Massachusetts and Rhode Island 
regiments. Hitchcock's and Varnum's regiments each lost four 
killed, among them Lieutenant Noel Allen of Varntmi's regiment. 
The total loss of the brigade was about seventy-five, fully ten 
per cent, of those engaged. 

It so happened that neither Colonel Varnum nor Colonel 
Hitchcock were present. General Greene was sufficiently recov- 
ered from his illness to be present during the battle, and took a 
part. He was thus a witness of the good behavior of the regi- 
ments of his old brigade. 

From his letters we know that Crary and Cornell commanded 
the 9th and nth Regiments respectively, and although Greene 
takes pains to mention that both behaved well on the i6th, 
neither were recommended for reappointment. Colonel Varnum 
had already determined to resign his commission. Lieutenant 
Colonel Cornell was soon detailed to other duties, which took him 
entirely away from the regiment, of which hereafter, from various 
circumstances, Angell usually was actually in command. 

The day after the Harlem fight, General Greene was ordered 
to take command in the Jerseys,' with headquarters at Fort 
Constitution, on the Palisades, designed, with Fort Washington 
on the opposite shore, to command the passage of the river and 

' G. O. 19th September, General Nixon's brigade was ordered to move to 
New Jersey and join General Greene. The following day Greene was ordered 
to appoint careful officers at Burdett's ferry to examine passengers. A return 
of the brigade as of 20th September, gives a total of 1040 present fit for duty, 
in addition to officers, of whom 184 were of the 9th and 152 of the nth Regi- 
ments. Colonel Hitchcock had returned to duty, but both the other field 
officers were absent, probably on detached duty, as 73 men of the nth were 
''on command" and 68 of the 9th. One hundred and forty men were sick in 
the nth and 137 in the 9th, showing how the ravages of the fever to which 
they had been exposed on Long Island had affected both regiments. The 



Military Life 99 

secure the ferries. Nixon's was one of the three brigades which 
formed his command. It was from Fort Constitution that 
Greene wrote on the 3d October: 

We want nothing but good officers to constitute as good an 
army as ever marched into the field. Our men are infinitely 
better than the officers. I do not speak of Rhode Island officers, 
for they are generally good, and behaved exceeding well in the 
late action. They did themselves a great deal of honor. I shall 
send a list to the Governor of such as deserve a preference. 

On the I ith he wrote to Governor Cooke: 

His excellency. General Washington will transmit you a list of 
officers, to constitute the two new regiments to be raised by your 
state. The most of those officers are gentlemen whose conduct 
has been approved by those under whom they have served. The 
success of the Cause . . . altogether depends upon the establish- 
ing a good core, or corps, of officers ... In the last action, every 
regiment behaved with a becoming spirit, especially Colonel 
Hitchcock's and Colonel Varnum's . . . Colonel Varnum, from 
the treatment he has met with from Congress, has taken the 
resolution of leaving the army. . . . Perhaps the House 
may think proper to re-elect him, and give him the oppor- 
tunity to refuse the appointment, as a compliment due to his 
party services. 

The list above referred to was duly forwarded with 
Washington's recommendation that Israel Angell be appointed 
lieutenant colonel.' 

At the October session of the Rhode Island General Assembly, 

9th reported two, and the nth three, as having been lost by death since the 
last return. On the 5th October there is a return for the 9th Regiment, dated 
at Fort Constitution. 

' Washington sent to Governor Cooke on the 12th October the names 
of the officers he recommended for retention and promotion. " Presum- 
ing that your state are about to make an arrangement of officers for the 
quota of troops which they are to furnish, and that they may wish to know 
those belonging to them who have served with reputation and bravery, 
I have thought it expedient to obtain a return by such means as seemed most 
likely to be well founded. To this end I have made enquiry, and the enclosed 
list . . . comprehends the names of those who, in public estimation, and that 
of the generals under whom they have more particularly acted, have behaved 
themselves well and to good acceptance." 



100 Israel Angell 

it was voted to raise immediately two regiments, ' agreeably to 
the requisition of the Continental Congress, and officers were 
chosen for the two "battalions." Colonel Varnum's "party 
services" were duly recognized, as he was chosen to command 
the First Battalion, having as his field officers Adam Comstock as 
lieutenant colonel, and Henry Sherburne as major. Colonel 
Hitchcock was chosen to command the Second Battalion, 
Israel Angell as lieutenant colonel, and Christopher Smith, 
major. 

During January, 1777, both Washington and Greene begged 
the State to complete their two Continental line regiments be- 
fore enlisting men for the State brigade, which had been placed 
under command of Varnum, now a brigadier general of Rhode 
Island State troops. In February, Angell was specifically ap- 
pointed as colonel and commander of the "second battalion,"^ 
and Samuel Ward, major of the first, the positions of the other 
field officers being left vacant. Nor was Christopher Greene for- 
mally appointed colonel until May. His commission, however, 
was dated back thirteen days prior to Colonel Angell's. 

Many stirring events happened before the General Assembly 
acted upon the recommendations, in October, of Washington 
and Greene concerning the officers of the Rhode Island troops, 
and these events served to confirm those generals in their estimate 
of the soldierly qualities of Major Angell. 

Major Angell was at Fort Constitution or vicinity the last of 
September, and on the last day Lieutenant Colonel Cornell was 
appointed by General Greene, Deputy Assistant Adjutant 
General of the Division. The duties of this office relieved him 
from duty with his own regiment, leaving Major Angell the only 
field officer other than the colonel. The regiment was principally 
employed in guard duty at the ferries, and in repairing and 
strengthening the works, as well as building huts. On Oct. 13th, 

' Lippitt's regiment, of the Rhode Island State forces, marched to reenforce 
Washington 15th September, Stiles's Journal. 

^ The 2nd Regiment or Battalion retained its organization throughout its 
history, promotions being made largely from its own personnel, whereas the 
so-called ist Regiment entirely lost its distinctive features. In 1778, its entire 
officer personnel was sent to Rhode Island to recruit, and its rank and file were 
transferred to Angell's Regiment. The recruits obtaind in 1778 were colored, 
and formed but four small companies. 



Military Life loi 

in anticipation of an attack by the enemy on the American posts 
east of the Hudson, Nixon's and Roberdeau's brigades were or- 
dered to draw and cook three days' provisions ; and on the same 
day General Nixon ordered his brigade to be ready to march 
that night to King's Bridge to cross the river, and thence to 
Fort Washington, where they were to await further orders. 

Until Lee assumed his command, General Heath retained 
command of the troops in Westchester County, and on the arrival 
of Nixon with his brigade ordered him to "have the troops which 
marched this day, take position to the eastward of the bridge by 
Williams's completely ready to turn out, in case the enemy should 
make an attack that night," or if the attack was made at Frog's 
(Throgs Neck) Point to support the forces there. If at or near 
East Chester to make the best disposition of his force he could. 
He was to post a guard at Pell's Point. Hitchcock's regiment was 
stationed in the lines near Hell Gate.^ On the i6th headquarters 
of the brigade were at East Chester, and Varnum's regiment was 
ordered to relieve Nixon's regiment at Throgs Neck, where Howe 
had landed the greater part of his army on the 12th. 

General Lee^ had returned from Charleston, S. C, and was 
given this sector to defend ; thus, as at Prospect Hill in the fall of 
1775, the Rhode Islanders were again under the immediate 
command and observation of Lee. His fame and popularity 
was at its height. Fort Constitution was renamed in his honor. 
He had left the army before Boston in January, 1776, and now 
for the first time since was to meet the Rhode Island regiments 
whose discipline and soldierly appearance had so attracted him 
during the siege of Boston. The regiments assigned to his com- 
mand truly consisted of the "flower of the Army," as described by 

• Statement of Stephen Olney in his MS. Narrative. On the 29th of 
September the regiments of the brigade were mostly at "EngHsh neighbor- 
hood," and on the 15th of October, Nixon's brigade was taken from Greene, 
and with McDougall's and Glover's assigned to a division to be commanded 
by General Lee. 

^ This was the second time Major Angell had been in a division commanded 
by Lee. Major Angell could not have been but pleased with the thought that 
now for a time at least his own merits might become known to one so fully 
quahfied to judge. By the strange vicissitude of fate, two years later this plain 
country major was to sit in judgment upon General Lee to whom doubtless 
he owed much of his knowledge of military affairs. 



102 Israel Angell 

Lieutenant Tilghman in his letter to Honorable William Duer of 
the 15th of October.^ 

With the surrender of Fort Washington on the i6th November 
ended the disastrous New York campaign of 1776, in which 
Major Angell had taken part from the beginning to end. 

On the ist November the nth Regiment, Colonel Hitchcock 
in command, was stationed at Philipsborough. A return made 
that day showed that there were fit for duty of the rank and file 
only 109 men. The total strength of the regiment was 351 rank 
and file, lacking 289 to bring the regiment to full strength. The 
return shows that Colonel Hitchcock and Major Angell were 
present with the regiment. 

A return of the 24th showed a slight gain, but the number 
absent sick was still appalling. Hitchcock's regiment then 
showed a total strength of 335, of whom 132 were present fit for 
duty, 90 absent "on command," and no sick. Both regiments 
were commanded by the majors.^ 

A court martial was held at Philipsborough, 12th November, 
to try Major Austin, charged with wanton cruelty and barbarous 
treatment of helpless women and children. Colonel Hitchcock 
was president and Major Angell was a member of the court. 

On the following day, 12th November, Washington wrote to 
Lee from Peekskill regarding enlistments to begin in the Rhode 
Island regiments, and added, "Colonel Hitchcock will inform 
you of the officers recommended to that State by General 
Greene," and that such as agree to stay were to be commissioned in 
rank assigned him in that recommendation. We have already 
seen that Major Angell had been recommended for promotion, 
and although it probably was not then known in camp, he had 
been chosen by the General Assembly as lieutenant-colonel at the 
session commencing 28th October. 

After the loss of Fort Washington, Fort Lee was abandoned, 
and Washington with his ever-dwindling army hastened to a 
position on the Delaware, falling back through Brunswick, 
Princeton, and Trenton. He had but 4000 men, and ordered 
Lee, who had been left to guard the approaches to the High- 
lands, most urgently to join him. Lee delayed his march until 

' See Johnston, Campaign of 1776, p. 270. 
"Force, Archives. 



Military Life 103 

the 2d December. He crossed the river at Haverstraw with 
3000 men. About 500 men were dropped on account of sick- 
ness before reaching Baskingridge. Gates followed with 1700, 
and about 2000 Jersey militia joined the army. This was the 
statement made by Lee's aide, William Bradford, to Reverend 
Ezra Stiles, 13th January, 1777. Lee proceeded by slow stages, 
and reached Baskingridge on the 12th December. There, 
twenty-two miles from the advance guards of the enemy, on the 
13th, he was surprised and captured, by a party of fifty light 
horse. Lee's quarters were about two miles in the rear of the 
main body. Bradford escaped and overtook Sullivan with the 
news of Lee's capture, about noon, eight miles distant. 

From General Sullivan's orders on the nth, we learn that on 
that day the whole army was ordered to strike tents at half past 
seven and to march at eight o'clock. Hitchcock, who now 
commanded the brigade in the absence of General Nixon, had the 
advance, followed by the brigades of Glover and Sargent. In 
case of attack Hitchcock's and Glover's brigades were to form the 
first line, with Hitchcock on the right. This brought Colonel 
Hitchcock's regiment, now commanded by Angell, in the van. 
After Lee's capture, Sullivan, being in command, hastened the 
march, endeavoring to comply with Washington's orders. The 
division crossed the Delaware from Phillipsburg, New Jersey, to 
Easton, Pennsylvania, and joined Washington the 20th December.' 

The Rhode Island troops were attached (22d December) to. 
Cadwalader's division, stationed at Bristol. Washington's head- 
quarters were at Newtown. Washington informed Cadwalader 
of his intention to surprise the Hessians at Trenton, and or- 
dered him to cross the Delaware at Dunk's Ferry, and if he 
could "do nothing real, at least create as great a diversion as 
possible," while Washington crossed nine miles farther up. 
The attack was scheduled to begin one hour before daylight on 

' A return of the army of the 22d December gives Colonel Hitchcock in 
command of a brigade composed of the remnants of the regiments known as 
Nixon's, Varnum's, Hitchcock's, Little's, and Lippitt's, having a total strength 
of 822 officers and men, of whom but 680 rank and file were fit for duty. 
Hitchcock's own regiment had but 114 men fit for duty. Officially it still 
lacked a lieutenant-colonel, but Major Angell was acting as such, commanding 
the regiment. 



104 Israel Angell 

the 26th. On reaching the river at Dunk's Ferry, which had 
been chosen rather than the crossing at BurHngton, a small 
party crossed to the Jersey side, and there found that the ice 
had caked along the shore to a distance which made it imprac- 
ticable to cross with artillery. During the whole time the storm 
of wind, hail, snow, and rain was severe. The firing at Trenton 
was distinctly heard at Burlington and Bristol, and the following 
day Cadwalader, learning of Washington's success, determined 
to cross the river, expecting to find Washington at Trenton, not 
knowing that he had retired immediately after his success. 
Colonel Hitchcock, on being asked if his troops would willingly 
(their terms of enlistment soon expired) make the crossing, 
was obliged to tell Cadwalader that unless they were supplied 
with shoes, stockings, and breeches, they would not march.' 
Cadwalader procured seven hundred pair of each of the articles 
named from the Pennsylvania Council of Safety. Delivery 
was made at sunrise 27th December, and that morning the 
entire division crossed the river at Bristol. After crossing it 
was learned that Washington had abandoned Trenton and re- 
turned to Newtown. Hitchcock now advised that the troops 
should recross the river, because if they should be attacked, hav- 
ing no support, and the river being still very difficult to cross, 
the consequences might be fatal. It was determined, however, 
to march to Burlington, and thence if the intelligence warranted 
to proceed to Bordentown and Mt. Holly. It was found that 
Count Dunop, who commanded the Hessians at Bordentown, 
on the arrival of the fugitives from Trenton had immediately 
marched to Crosswicks, whence he proceeded to Princeton. On 
receipt of this news Colonel Cadwalader wrote to General 
Washington, late on the night of the 27th, that though not quite 
conformable with the latter's orders, he should at once proceed, 
and if Washington thought proper to cross again "a pursuit would 
keep up the panic." 

Hitchcock's brigade was at Crosswicks on the 31st December, 
and its time of enlistment expired the following day. General 
Miffiin appealed to the patriotism of the men, and at the same time 
they were informed that money had been provided to pay those 

' On 23d December, Washington wrote that the Rhode Island regiments 
were "much in want of everything." 






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Military Life 105 

who remained a bounty of $io, and made other promises which 
appealed to the half clad, miserably equipped men, standing 
on snow covered ground, who knew how well the enemy were 
equipped. Howland reports that all agreed to remain the month, 
signifying assent by poising their firelocks. "Two hours after 
this we were on our way to Trenton." The march consumed 
the whole night, as the roads were in poor condition, and acci- 
dents happened to the artillery, to say nothing of the condition 
of the men themselves. 

Howland^ explains what happened between the alarm caused 
by the approach of the enemy, and the retreat of the American 
outposts which had been placed to delay the entrance of the enemy 
into the town, not with the purpose of bringing on a general en- 
gagement. Howland stated that a company of artillery and picket 
guard were placed on the road leading from Princeton, and that 
Hitchcock's brigade was ordered from its position on the south 
side of the bridge, where the army about four thousand strong 
was drawn up, to march through the main street of the town and 
cover the retreat of the artillery and pickets into and through 
the north end of the town. Hitchcock's brigade, having allowed 
them to pass through their ranks, now began falling back pressed 
closely by the enemy, who were in a solid column, as the street 
was quite narrow. Other parties of the enemy followed a parallel 
road nearer the river, and attacked from between the houses. 
This was toward the close of the short day. When the advance 
of the retreating force had nearly reached the bridge a vain 
attempt was made to cut it off, but the enemy was unable to 
stand the artillery fire directed upon them by a battery posted 
at the southern approach to the bridge. 

The bridge was narrow and crowded, ^ and as Howland passed 

' Letter from John Howland, Esq., relative to the Rhode Island regiment 
commanded by Colonel Christopher Lippitt in the years 1776 and 1777. 
Providence, 1831. 

* Olney frankly states that they crossed the bridge in great disorder, 
caused he says by the fact that the first platoon wheeled, some others " turned 
about as they had been taught on parade," causing confusion at the bridge 
head. The advance of the enemy reached the north bank of Shabbocunk 
Creek, three miles north of the town, about noon. Having driven in the 
outposts they continued the advance until checked by several battalions posted 
on the high ground near the town. This is the "eminence" which Olney de- 



io6 Israel Angell 

he saw Washington there on horseback, his horse pressed against 
the rail, and heard him direct Hitchcock to take his men to a 
meadow and form them there on the south side of the creek. 
This was promptly done. The brigade then advanced to the 
bank of the creek, whereupon the enemy withdrew to the shelter 
of houses on the other side. As the creek was not fordable, 
except in a few places, and the bridge was well protected by the 
guns planted near it, the day closed without any decisive result. 

The day had been mild, but the night came on intensely cold. 
Fires were purposely permitted, and replenished liberally, and 
a working party sent out to give the enemy the impression that 
earthworks were being erected, preparatory to a desperate stand 
the next day. But in silence, about midnight, Washington led 
his entire force off the field, and tired and nearly exhausted as 
they were, hurried them on toward Princeton by a round-about 
road, ' south and east of the main road from Princeton down which 
Howe had marched the preceding day. Even the American 
sentries did not know of the retirement until the next morning. 
Howland recalled that on the march, whenever halts were called, 
men would fall asleep standing, only to be awakened by stumbHng 
when the men in the rear pressed upon them. 

At daybreak, the army was close upon Princeton. General 
Mercer, who commanded a column marching on a road which 
diverged from the route followed by the larger force, came in 
contact with a regiment of British troops already on their march 
to join Howe, the advance of the three regiments who had slept 
at Princeton that night. Mercer's few hundred men broke when 
the enemy charged, and Mercer, himself, was mortally wounded. 

Colonel Hitchcock worn out with the campaign of the past 
weeks, although able to command the brigade the 2d of January, 
had now reached the limit of his endurance. At Princeton 
Angell led the regiment of which he had had charge since leaving 
the Hudson. Olney states that Colonel Hitchcock was sick and 
absent. He further states, "After marching all night we found 



scribed and from which Hand's battalion of riflemen had just been driven. It 
would seem that there had been ample time for the men of Hitchcock's brigade 
to have had breakfast. Probably the majority sought rest rather than food 
after the night's march. 

' The Quaker Road to the east of the Assanpink River. 



Military Life 107 

ourselves in the vicinity of Princeton, and a detachment of 
British drawn up with field pieces to receive us. . . . Major 
Israel Angell, the only field officer present, made a short speech 
to the regiment, encouraging them to act the part of soldiers, 
worthy of the cause for which we were contending. We marched 
a short distance with a wood on our right and partly in front, and 
the first notice I had of the enemy being so near, they to the 
number of thirty or forty, fired a volley on the front of the 
column composed of Jersey and Pennsylvania militia, who broke 
and came running through our ranks. Ordered to join Captain 
Jeremiah Olney's company, a few did, but the rest made off." 
When clear of the woods the column "displayed" and marched 
in line, receiving "a full discharge of musket and grape shot." 
The colors were borne by Ensign Oliver Jencks of Cumberland. 
The advance continuing, the enemy fled, and were pursued to 
Princeton college, where, says Olney, "three hundred submitted 
as prisoners." From this account it is evident that Hitchcock's 
brigade was with the main column and immediately behind the 
Pennsylvania militia who had led the advance from Trenton. 

On the 3d March, Stiles entertained two officers of Lip- 
pitt's regiment who were present at Princeton, and who gave him 
the order of battle after the rout of the Pennsylvania militia. 
According to these eye-witnesses, Angell formed his regiment 
about two hundred yards distant from the enemy, and advancing 
at one hundred yards fired two or three volleys, and then charged 
impetuously. The enemy retreated to their "two field pieces," 
which were rushed, but recovered at several intervals and de- 
livered their fire. About 200 reached town and surrendered. 
Lippitt's regiment numbered 128 men, and, notes Stiles, "our 
five regiments might be 5 or 600." He gives a plan of the 
"order of battle," representing General Washington on the left 
of the line, Hitchcock leading, and the regiments in line in the 
following order, from the right, Nixon's, Varnum's (commanded 
by Crary), Lippitt's, Hitchcock's (commanded by Major Angell), 
Little's (commanded by Lieut. Colonel Henshaw) . He also notes 
that the regiments marched platoon front, sixteen platoons, each 
of eight men. 

Howland states, "it was about noon when we left Princeton. 
We turned off to Somerset Court House," where they arrived at 



io8 Israel Angell 

about 10 or ii p.m.' The prisoners were shut up in the Court 
House. The troops rested on the frozen ground, there being 
barely enough houses for the general officers. This was the third 
night's march in succession, with the days intervening spent un- 
der arms or marching all day. The next day the brigade pro- 
ceeded to Morristown, and after Hitchcock's death the brigade 
was broken up, the regiments composing it being sent to various 
stations near the enemy lines. 

The news that a British force had occupied Newport reached 
the Rhode Islanders when they were crossing the Delaware at 
Easton on the way to join Washington. Many of the men were in 
consequence desirous of reaching home as soon as possible to 
participate in the defense of their own State. Notwithstanding 
that the term for which they had voluntarilly agreed to remain 
was as yet unexpired, ' many were dismissed, and marched by 
way of Peekskill for home. At Peekskill, they were met by an 
agent of the State with a supply of the much needed shoes. 
New regiments were being formed in Rhode Island, not only to 
meet the demand of Congress for her quota, but for a shorter 
term of service, fifteen months instead of three years or for the 
war. Enlistment in these organizations, which the State patri- 
otically placed at the disposition of Congress, was preferred to 
enlistment in the Continental line. 

This condition did not exist for the officers. They had been 
appointed for the duration of the war, but had what the enlisted 
man did not, the opportunity of resigning from the army. Major 
Angell had been appointed Lieut. Colonel of one of the Rhode 
Island line regiments, and his new commission dated from the 
1st January, 1777. On the 13th of January, Colonel Hitchcock 
died. He was interred at Morristown with the honors of war, 
"as the last mark of respect we could show him," writes General 
Greene. Colonel Angell was now the commanding officer of 
the regiment, the post he had so satisfactorily filled during 
the period when Colonel Hitchcock was acting as commander 
of the brigade. It was probably a foregone conclusion that he 

' Washington led his army by way of Kingston to Somerset Court House, 
and there the exhausted men rested. On the 5th January, Washington was at 
Pluckemin, and thence removed to Morristown, which became winter quarters. 
The British withdrew to Amboy and Brunswick. 



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Commission as Colonel, Army of the United States 
Original in Peaision Bureau, Washington 



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io8 age 11 

rs were shut up in the Court 

the frozen ground, there being 

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ih the days intervening spent un- 

The next day the brigade pro- 

i er Hitchcock's death the brigade 

composing it being sent to various 

force had occupied Newport reached 

1 they were crossing the Delaware ai 

to join Washington. Many of the men were in 

>us of reaching home as soon as possible to 

defense of their own State. Notwithstanding 

lor which they had voluntarilly agreed to remain 

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riny. Major 

It of the Rhode 

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v\i! with the honors of war, 

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nei Angeil was now the commanding officer of 

i.c, the post he had so satisfn -"■■'■ filled during 

when Colonel Hitchcock was o commander 

ade. It was probably a forego; -^ion that hr 

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Military Life 109 

would be promoted, but the appointment did not come until 
February. 

General Greene wrote to Governor Cook on 28 January, 
1777, that. "Colonel Hitchcock's death leaves a vacancy in 
that regiment that will be necessary to fill up. Colonel Angell 
stands in the line of promotion. Captain Olney will make either 
a good lieut. colonel or major." 

Some time after Colonel Hitchcock's death, how soon cannot 
be learned from any of the records or letters which have come 
down to us, Colonel Angell appears to have been given leave of 
absence. His presence in Rhode Island was sorely needed to 
hasten the enlistments for the regiment he was to command, 
and as the entire force of Washington was at this time reduced to 
but three thousand men fit for service, two thirds of whom were 
militia under their own officers, not only was recruiting urgently 
necessary, but officers could be spared for that purpose. A 
circular letter dated 12th March, 1777, which had been sent to 
"all the colonels of every State," was enclosed under cover of a 
letter to General Varnum, addressed to Colonel Angell. 

Head Quarters, Morristown, March la"", 1777. 
Sir: 

You are hereby required immediately to send me an exact 
return of the state of your regiment, and to march all the recruits 
you have, after they get over the small pox, to join the army; 
leaving a sufficient number of proper officers to carry on the 
recruiting service, who are to follow as fast as they are ready. 
No pleas, for delay, drawn from the dispersion of the officers and 
men can be admitted. Every commanding officer should know 
where his inferior officers and these where their recruits are, and 
should be able to collect them in the most expeditious manner. 
You are to remain behind to complete your regiment, sending 
forward your Major, and as circumstances shall permit, your 
Lieutenant Colonel also. 

I am Sir 

Your most humble servant 
Geo. Washington. 
Col! Angell. 

Recruiting of the ten hundred men needed to complete the 
State's quota for the two Continental regiments had begun 
prior to Colonel Angell's return to Rhode Island, and in this 



no Israel Angell 

duty Simeon Thayer, who had been captured at Quebec, and 
was home on parole, proved invaluable in procuring recruits. 

There is an undated "Return of the Second Battalion in 
Rhode Island commanded by Colonel Israel Angell," listing the 
recruits by towns. The total was but 141. The date may be 
placed early in March. 

The Rhode Island Assembly at its April session, proportioned 
five hundred men to the several towns to be raised before the 
loth May, for filling the Continental battalions, under penalty 
of £ 10 for each soldier not furnished. As on that date the number 
of men needed from the various towns had not been supplied, 
the towns were given until the 15th to complete their quotas. 
That month Christopher Greene was commissioned colonel of 
the ist Continental regiment then being raised, Ebenezer David, 
chaplain of Angell's regiment, and Elijah Hawkins, Jr., and 
Nathaniel Phillips were appointed ensigns in the same regiment. 
Charles Thompson was appointed chaplain of Greene's regiment. 
Six hundred suits of clothes were ordered made for the Conti- 
nental recruits. The records contain every evidence that the 
General Assembly was attempting to do its part in providing 
the State's quota. Exeter, having refused to supply its quota, 
General Spencer was authorized to use any troops, including 
Continentals, to enforce the act of the preceding April requiring 
each town to provide its quota of men for the Continental army. 
The various towns were also ordered to provide their proportion 
of five hundred blankets for the Continental regiments. 

Major Simeon Thayer of Angell's regiment was still in Rhode 
Island in June. In July Colonel Angell was paid £4-6-0 on 
account of transportation. Captain Thomas Hughes of the regi- 
ment, who had been wounded at the battle of Long Island, was 
left to attend to the forwarding of recruits and of necessary 
equipment. The recruits forwarded by Colonel Angell to the 
camp at Morristown formed a considerable detachment. 

On the 19th July, Captain Flagg of Angell's regiment was ap- 
pointed Brigade-major, and the following order published: 

Coll. Green's and Coll. Angells Battallions to be immediately 
divided into two cores — the commanding Officers are required 
to give each Comp^ an equal number of Officers, Non-com- 
missioned Officers, and privates. In ye Brigade Coll. Green's 



Military Life m 

Battallion to take ye right, Coll. Webb's ye Left, Coll. Sher- 
burn's on ye Right of Centre, Coll. Angel's on the Left of 
Centre, when ye Brigade is called into a Line either for exercise 
or Action. The Artillery must be equally divided on the Right 
& Left Flanks ye Distance of ten Feet to be allowed between 
each Battalion. 

On the 31st July, a detachment from Angell's regiment was 
ordered to garrison Fort Constitution. Colonel Angell was 
Oflficer of the Day, on the i8th and 19th August. During the 
remainder of the summer the regiment was doing duty at various 
places in the Highlands.^ 

On the 1 8th September Colonel Angell issued the following 
regimental order: 

As the Regiment was first arranged to consist of eight com- 
panies, but being sent forward by detachments, the companies 
have not yet been formed, the Colonel orders the Captains or 
commanding officers of the several companies to make a return 
of the commissioned and non-commissioned officers in their 
respective companies to be returned to the Colonel by 8 o'clock 
tomorrow morning, and as it is thought to be more convenient 
on many accounts to have each company in the regiment of an 
equal number, or as near as possible, the officers are requested 
to bring in a return of the men's names that properly belong to 
the company. 

On the 23d September the regiment was ordered south to 
join Washington, then attempting to avert the loss of Philadelphia. 

Unfortunately Captain Allen's orderly book, giving the or- 
ders of Colonel Angell, ceases with the entry of September 25, 
1777. Samuel Smith in his Memoirs states that Angell's 
regiment, when he joined, was in the Highlands on the east 
side of the Hudson River and that it marched thence to Red 
Bank. 

Orders had been issued under date of 23d September that 

'Colonel Angell rejoined the regiment between the 14th and i8th Aug. 
He was President of a Court Martial held at Peekskill, 2d September, 
at which several men of Greene's regiment, charged with raising a mutiny, 
were found guilty only of behaving in a disorderly manner. The sergeants 
concerned were suspended, the privates reprimanded. He was also on Court 
Martial duty 5th September. 



112 Israel Angell 

Varnum should march to reenforce the main army. He was met 
on his march by an express from Washington, bearing a letter 
dated yth October, directing him "immediately upon receipt of 
this letter (to) detach Colonel Greene's and Colonel Angell's 
regiments with their baggage, with orders to throw themselves 
into the fort at Red Bank upon the Jersey shore. . . . Gen- 
eral Greene has written a particular letter to Colonel Greene, 
in which he will find instructions." 

General Varnum was given command of the American force 
designed to protect the Jerseys. Washington wrote him, repeat- 
ing what had been told Greene, "the post with which you are 
now intrusted is of the utmost importance to America, and 
demands every exertion of which you are capable for its security 
and defence. The whole defence of the Delaware absolutely 
depends upon it; and consequently all the enemy's hopes of 
keeping Philadelphia, and finally succeeding in the object of 
the present campaign."^ 

Enclosed with this order to General Varnum, were instruc- 
tions to Colonel Greene,^ informing him that his and Angell's 
regiments were to proceed to Red Bank, where he was to occupy 
the fortifications, and to immediately communicate with Colonel 
Smith, commanding Fort Mifflin, and with Commodore Hazle- 
wood, commanding the fleet in the river. Greene was told he 
would be in command at Red Bank, and that he would find 
there a good fortification, the artillery in which would be di- 
rected by Captain Duplessis who had been sent with some 
officers for that purpose. 

Colonel Greene reported to Washington that he arrived with 
his regiment at Red Bank on the 14th, "much fatigued with 
the march, as I forced 35 miles one day. They are now in high 
spirits, and go to their duty with the greatest cheerfulness. . . . 
I have found it necessary to contract the fort; but it is now too 
large for our numbers, as we have very little to expect from the 
militia." Two or three days later he was reenforced by Colonel 

' Greene, Life of Greene, i : 485. The regiments commanded by Colonels 
Greene, Angell, Durkee, and Chandler, were formed into a brigade commanded 
by General Varnum. G.O. Oct. i6th, in Weedon's Orderly Book. 

'See Ford: Writings of Washington, 6:104. Greene's regiment had evi- 
dently preceded the rest of the brigade. 



Military Life 113 

Angell. The following instructions indicate a change from the 
original orders:' 

Sir: Head Quarters 16*^ Oct^". 1777. 

With the regiment you command & with what Baggage you 
think is absolutely necessary, you are immediately to proceed to 
Bristol, Cross the Delaware at that place & continue your Route 
to Red Bank, this March should be performed with the utmost 
Secrecy & under pretence of Conveying the Stores at Bristoll 
untill you arrive at that place, as the Enemy might endeavor to 
Intercept you should your Route be known. Upon your arrival 
at Red Bank you are to consult with Commodore Hazlewood & 
Colo^? . Greene and Smith & act in such manner as you think will 
be most conducive to the Security of the Posts in general without 
considering yourselves as attached to any particular one. I 
think it more than probable that the greatest part of your men 
will be wanted in fort Mififiin, & as you have many seamen you 
will give the Commodore every Assistance which may be thought 
prudent & necessarv. I have no doubt but you will use your 
utmost Exertions both in the Expedition of your March, & after 
your Arrival, for the Tenure & Security of the Posts you go to de- 
fend. As an opposition made in that Quarter becoming brave & 
Determined Officers, will greatly facilitate the Operations of this 
Army, & distress that of the Enemy to such a degree as must very 
soon place them in a most hazardous & disagreeable situation. 

I am &c 
Col. Angell. [Geo. Washington] 

These orders gave Colonel Angell certain discretionary 
powers, and in fact an independent command. He exercised 
the discretion given him well. He immediately reenforced the 
garrison of Red Bank, and joined in the heroic defence of that 
post. The night of the attack of the British ships upon Fort 
Mifflin, Colonel Angell sent a detachment from his regiment to 
Mud Island, to repair the breaches in the walls and erect a 
palisade. 

Fort Mercer, says Stephen Olney in his Narrative, was con- 

' Varnum was not at Red Bank until about the ist November. Washing- 
ton addressed him on that date, " I hope this will find you arrived safe at Red 
Bank with your detachment." From this time until the evacuation of Fort 
Mifflin, he was at or near Red Bank. The orders to withdraw from that post 
were given after Generals St. Clair, Knox, and DeKalb, sent by Washington, 
had counselled with him. As Washington stated, forts Mifflin and Mercer were 
mutually dependent upon one another. 



114 Israel Angell 

structed to be defended by not less than 1500 to 2000 men. and 
the combined strength of Greene's and Angell's regiments was 
not much more than 500 effectives, including the artillery de- 
tachment. To better his chances of successfully defending the 
fort Colonel Greene caused about two thirds to be cut off by a 
breastwork, intending to defend the smaller third to the last 
extremity. The entire force was engaged continually, attempt- 
ing to complete this interior earthwork before the expected attack 
of the enemy should materialize. On the 226. October a- force of 
about 1200 Hessians appeared before the fort, whose commander, 
Count Dunop, demanded its surrender, threatening if obliged to 
take the works by assault he would give no quarter. Lieut.- 
Colonel Jeremiah Olney of Angell's regiment met the flag, and 
having told the British officer that the garrison would defend 
the fort to the last extremity and neither asked nor expected 
quarter, had barely time to reach the cover of the walls before 
the enemy artillery opened fire. The Hessians about quarter 
of five in the afternoon advanced in two solid columns. 
Their left came first within range of the American fire, which 
was well directed and threw them into disorder, but did not stop 
them. The enemy reached the top of the breastwork, but were 
then obliged to retreat. In the meantime the second column 
had overcome the slight resistance offered by the few men posted 
on the outer walls of the fort, and had broKen into the enclosure. 
Finding it abandoned, they jumped at the conclusion that the 
fort was theirs. As they pushed forward with "huzzas," at about 
fifty or sixty paces from the new breastwork they received the fire 
of the defenders. Although they continued their advance to the 
breastwork, they at last broke and fled, leaving the ditch filled 
with dead and wounded. The next day 87 of their dead were 
buried in the ditch where they fell. The American loss was tri- 
fiing. Captain Sylvanus Shaw and four or five privates of Angell's 
regiment were killed, and a number wounded. Dr. Peter Turner, 
of East Greenwich, who was surgeon at the fort, stated that 
Colonel Greene sprang upon the rampart, calmly surveyed the 
enemy through a little pocket spyglass, and told his men as he 
stepped down, "Fire low, men, they have a broad belt above 
their hips, aim at that." More than 400 of the enemy were 
killed and wounded. 



Military Life 115 

"I heartily congratulate you upon this happy event," wrote 
Washington to Colonel Greene, "and beg you will accept my 
most particular thanks, and present the same to your whole 
garrison, both officers and men. Assure them that their gallantry 
and good behaviour meet my warmest appreciation." 

Fort Mercer and Fort Mifflin were erected, and obstructions 
placed in the river, in the hope that with the aid of the American 
flotilla of gun boats, the British fleet would be prevented from 
ascending the river to Philadelphia. If Howe could not open com- 
munication from Philadelphia by water, his occupation of that city 
was futile; and if the opening of the river could be prevented until 
freezing weather set in, it was the hope and expectation of Wash- 
ington that Howe would be obliged to evacuate the place. 

On the loth November batteries constructed by the British 
on the Pennsylvania shore opened fire on Fort Mifflin, and 
Colonel Samuel Smith of Maryland, then in command, was 
wounded. His place was taken by Lieut. -Colonel Russell of 
Connecticut, who in turn was relieved by Major Simeon Thayer 
of Angell's regiment. Major Silas Talbot was with him, and 
was wounded. The defence was continued until the fort was in 
ruins. Colonel Angell's own description of the defence of Fort 
Mifflin was written to secure to Major Thayer the credit due him. 

Camp Valley Forge, Feb^'y 17*^ 1778 
Sir 

As the loss of fort Mifflin on the Delaware was an Event, 
which, by producing Consequences of great Importance, threw 
a new Appearance on the face of affairs of both the Contending 
powers, the Circumstances that led to, and Attended, the In- 
cident, together with the persons Conducting it, Ought to be 
Impartially pointed out that a proper judgment may be formed 
of the measure, and the praise or blame fall where it is due. I 
have been lately on a tour through the State of new Jersey, and 
the upper part of the State of Pensylvena, on publick business, 
and finding that the Country in General had imbibed notions 
Relative to that affair, differing much from the truth, for which 
Reasons I have been induced with most freedom to State the 
matter right, in view of my Country Men, Humbly trusting 
that they will Excuse the liberties I take in addressing them. 

The Garrison Consisted Originally of a Detachment from the 
Virginia Troops commanded by Lt. Col. Smith, who is still 
Generally supposed to have Continued in the Command till the 



ii6 Israel Angell 

Evacuation. The fort is built on the lower End of Mud Island, 
and was designed Only to Command the Channel of the river; 
for this reason those parts alone that were Exposed to the fire 
of the shipping were Regularly fortified, the remainder had Only 
a row of Pallisades, & lay Intirely open to the opposite shore, 
which forms a kind of half-moon round it for a Considerable 
Extent. On this shore the Enemy had Errected several Batteries 
Early in the fall, and kept up a Scattering Cannonade for several 
weeks before the memorable defeat of the Hessians at fort 
Mercer on the other Shore. After this, the firing was discontinued 
till the loth of November, when they Opened a new Battery 
within point blank shot of the fort, and began a very sevier 
Cannonade, the nth, in the afternoon. Col? Smith received a 
wound in the arm, and left the fort. Lieut. Col9 Russell, of 
Gen. Varnum's brigade, succeeded him in the Command. On 
the 13th, by the particular Request of Gen. Varnum, unexpected 
as his desire was, to major Thayer; Major Thayer went over, 
and relieved Col° Russell, and the Remainder of Col° Smith's 
men; part having been relieved before, with a Detachment from 
Col° Durkee & Col^ Chandler's Regiments, of Gen^ Varnum's 
brigade. The Garrison then consisted of 286 Rank & file, and 
Capt. Lee's Company of artillery, of about 20 men. On the 
14th, in the morning, a floating battery came down upon the 
fort, and was silenced from our works in about Two hours. The 
Cannonade' [continued the whole day and night. On the 15th, 
in the morning, the enemy opened a new battery on Province 
Island, directly opposite to the fort, and within a very small 
distance. This made five batteries playing into the fort, with 
eighteen pieces of cannon, two mortars, and ten howitzers. 

It may be proper to observe here that there was no place of 
safety in any part of the fort. Such was the situation of the 
batteries, that they kept up a cross fire in almost every direction. 
The only covering the troops had was without the fort, under 
the wall, and this afforded a shelter from nothing but the enor- 
mous balls. At 8 o'clock this morning, (15th,) seven large ships 
drew up to the chevaux defrise, and began a brisk fire on the fort, 
and on a small battery Gen. Varnum had erected down the river 
against the ships. The enemy's ships annoyed our troops on 
Mud Island exceedingly, for against them they had not the least 
shadow of defence. At 1 1 o'clock, a large ship, fnounting twenty 
twenty-four pounders, and a sloop with three twenty-four 
pounders, which she brought to bear on the fort by her being 
ballasted on the opposite side with stone, warped up back of 
Hog Island, and came up so near the fort that they threw hand 

' The portion within brackets being lost in the original as entered in the 
letter book, is copied from the printed version, which differs in a few slight 
unessentials from the original. 



Military Life 117 

grenades from their round tops directly into the works ; they had 
also forty rifle-men in their tops. At first the garrison had two 
pieces of cannon, which played upon them with good success, 
but they were soon dismounted, as the rest had been before. 
At a quarter before 3 P. M., General Varnum sent a line to Major 
Thayer, informing him that the floating batteries and some of 
the galleys were working up to attack the ship and sloop that 
lay under the fort, and desired him to take what advantage he 
could of this circumstances. They accordingly went part of the 
way over, but returned without doing any thing. In the even- 
ing. Gen. Varntun sent over a number of boats, with discretionary 
orders to hold or evacuate the fort as he (Major Thayer) should 
judge most prudent, but in case he left, to destroy what he could 
not bring off. Our cannon were now all dismounted, block- 
houses destroyed, barracks shattered to pieces, and palisades 
beat down. The garrison was exposed to the whole fire of the 
enemy, without the power to make the most feeble defence, or 
give in return the least annoyance. The fire continued from all 
parts except from the shipping, which had dropped down to 
the lower chevaux de frise.] ( — ) firing, this being the situation 
of affairs the major judg'i it impossible to Effect any Valuable pur- 
poses by a longer posession of the fort, and seeing the inevitable 
destruction to which the Troops would be Exposed by further ob- 
stinacy, he thought most prudent to Evacuate it. He Accordingly 
sent off all the Ammunition and stores, and at 7 O' Clock in the 
Evening he sent over all the Garrison Except 40 men, that y« main 
body might be out of danger ; with them he kept Possession of the 
fort till 12 O'clock and then finding no favourable Circumstances 
turn up, he spik'i (all) the Cannon, set fire to the barracks, & 
passed out with the rest of the men, to fort Mercer, without sus- 
taining any loss in the retreat, tho much exposed. 

Thus my Countryman, I have given you such an Account of 
the Circumstances of the Evacuation as will enable you to form 
a Tolerable Judgment of the propriety or Imprudence of the 
measure, and I make no doubt, but the major's Conduct in the 
affair, will meet with the Approbation of the Judicious & Candid, 
& I shall Esteem myself happy, in Representing the matter in 
a trew light to you whatever may be the oppinion of the Ignorant 
& malicious, [five words lost]. I have the Honour to be, my dear 
Countrymen, your most obedient, & most humble Servant, 

Israel Angell, Col? 
2°*^ Rhode Island Regt. 

Mr. Carter, by giving the Aforegoing lines a place in your 
paper, will be doing Justice to one of the bravest of Officers, 

& much Oblige your 
To Mr. John Carter Humble Serv*, 

Printer in Providence Israel Angell 



ii8 Israel Angell 

The defence of Fort Mifflin and Fort Mercer are counted 
among the most notable and gallant events of the whole war. 
General Charles Lee, while still smarting from what he considered, 
perhaps justly, the unfair treatment he had received at his trial, 
praised the bravery of the American troops. He "ever had the 
highest opinion of the courage and other good qualities of the 
Americans as soldiers," and instanced the "defence of Red Bank, 
by Colonel Green, and Mud Island, by Colonel Smith," as forcing 
a "concession, even from the most determined infidels on this 
point, of the British officers, to the honour of American valour, 
. . . that no men could have done better; which from unwilling 
mouths is no small panegyric."^ 

Samuel Smith related his experiences, which were those of 
the rest of Angell's regiment. After the withdrawal from Red 
Bank he stated that the regiment marched to Valley Forge, the 
men being nearly destitute of clothing, except for what they had 
secured from the defeated Hessians. On the march, he says 
they stopped "some time" in the "mountains" until they could 
secure provisions. He evidently alludes to the days following 
Varnum's junction with Washington at Whitemarsh, which was 
in a hilly country just north of Chestnut Hill, where Howe 
attempted to bring on an engagement, and where originally it 
had been proposed to establish winter quarters. Thence they 
proceeded to the Schuylkill, and that night "laid down on their 
arms," some on the frozen ground with no covering, others had 
blankets, but none had other covering or protection. During 
the night, which was evidently that of the 17th December, 
nearly six inches of snow fell. Two days, he says, were spent 
here, indicating this halting place was Gulph Mills, near Matson 
Ford. On the second day a flock of goats was discovered, 
driven in, butchered and eaten. On the same day the wagons 
were unloaded, and utilized to make a bridge, over which the 
crossing was made. The men suffered severely on the next 
day's march, and their progress could be traced by blood on the 
snow. Some of the men who had blankets cut off the corners, 

' General Lee's Vindication to the Public in Memoirs, 1792. General Lee 
had served in the British army in America, against the French, and after 
service in Europe, returned to America in 1773. He died 2d October, 1782, at 
Philadelphia. Like Gates and Conway, he was not American bom. 



Military Life 119 

and wound them about their feet. Others used any old rags 
available. The frozen ground, snow and ice, and wet feet caused 
intense suffering. 

The story of the winter spent at Valley Forge has been told 
again and again. The sufferings of the army were great, caused 
chiefly by the negligence and incapacity of the Quartermaster 
and Commissary Departments. The camp was south of the river, 
and entrenchments ran from Valley Creek to the Schuylkill. 
Washington's headquarters were near the junction of Valley 
Creek and the river, and somewhat east, guarding the bridge which 
was thrown over the river, called Sullivan's bridge, near which 
Varnum's brigade, including the Rhode Islanders, was stationed. 

On January ist, Angell's regiment of 275 men, and Greene's 
of 290, together with Sherburne's and Henley's battalions, 
formed Varnum's brigade, which with the brigades of Poor and 
Huntington formed McDougall's Division. 

On the 29th of December Colonel Angell was field officer of 
the day. ' The week before a serious condition had existed. On 
learning that a strong party of the enemy were advancing toward 
Derby, Washington ordered the troops to hold themselves in 
readiness to march, when he became convinced that "the men 
were unable to stir on account of provisions, and that a dangerous 
mutiny begun the night before, and which with difficulty was sup- 
pressed by the spirited exertions of some officers, was still to be 
apprehended for want of this article. This brought forth the only 
commissary in the purchasing line in this camp; and with him 
this melancholy and alarming truth, that he had not a single hoof 
of any kind to slaughter, and not more than twenty-five barrels 
of flour," nor "he could not tell when to expect any."^ 

' General George Weedon's Orderly Book. 

^ Sparks's Writings of Washington, 5:197. Greene wrote that the oflficers 
were complaining for lack of "spirits," but "observe, however disagreeable 
their situation, they would patiently submit to their hard fortune, if the evil 
in its own nature was incurable, but they think by proper exertions spirits 
may be procured to alleviate their distress tmtil they had an opportunity to 
provide for themselves." He then suggests, as Lord Stirling had discovered 
a store of liquors, sufficient to supply all officers, that it be seized and dis- 
tributed among the regiments for the officers' use. Waldo notes imder date 
of December 28th, "yesterday upwards of fifty officers in General Greene's 
division resigned their commissions, six or seven of our regiment are doing 



120 Israel Angell 

On the 3d January, 1778, General Greene wrote to his brother 
Jacob: "Each state will be compelled hereafter to furnish 
clothing for their own troops. . . We have had three thousand 
soldiers unfit for duty for want of clothing this fall and winter. 
The Rhode Island troops have done themselves great honor 
this campaign. . . We are all going into log-huts — a sweet 
life after a most fatiguing campaign." 

Because of General Vamum's suggestion, which had Washing- 
ton's approval, the attempt to raise a regiment of freedmen was 
made by Rhode Island. Governor Cooke thought that perhaps 
300 slaves, who would be freed, could be enlisted. While in 
camp in Valley Forge, Colonel Angell, in accordance with this 
plan, enlisted in his regiment a negro named Tony, and gave to 
his master the following certificate : 

Camp Valley Forge, 30**1 March 1778 
I engage to write as soon as convenient to Colo. Greene now 
raising a Regt. of negros in the State of Rhode Island, respecting 
negrow Tone, (the property of Mr. Luke Griffith of the State of 
Maryland) now serving in my Regt. as a soldier, properly en- 
listed, and if it is agreeable to his sentiments, to purchase and 
pay upon demand for sd negro tone whatever siun of money the 
State of Rhode Island allows for able bodied slaves. And to 
acquaint Mr. Griffith as soon as possible on receipt of an answer 
from Col° Greene, but if the contrary, to deliver up sd negro 
Tone to his master or order whenever cal'd for. Also in case of 
any misfortune happening to or befalling sd Negro Tone previ- 
ous to an answer respecting him, to pay his master or order 
whatsoever money shall be due him at sd time, and further in 
the case of the death or desertion of sd Negro after an answer 
from Colo. Greene intimating a desier to have him in his Regt., 
to pay Mr. Griffith the price allowed. Israel Angell. 

I hereby certify the above to be a true copy sent to Mr. Luke 
Griffith concerning his negro Tone. Joseph Burchinal. 

the like today. All this is being occasioned by officers' famiUes being so much 
neglected at home on account of provisions. Their wages will not, by consid- 
erable, purchase a few trifling comfortables here in Camp, and maintain their 
families at home, while such extravagant prices are demanded for the common 
necessaries of life. What then have they to purchase clothes and other ne- 
cessities with. The present circumstances of the soldier is better by far than 
the officer, for the family of the soldier is provided for at the public expense, 
if the articles they want are above the common price." Waldo was in Prentice's 
regiment, Huntington's brigade. 



Military Life 121 

Pay-rolls of Colonel Angell's regiments for the months of 
February, March, and April, 1778, while at Valley Forge, are 
in Massachusetts Archives, vol. 47: 277,279. The return for 
the month of April shows that Olney was in command of the 
regiment on the date it was made up. A letter from Colonel 
Angell shows he was at the camp on March 30th, and a return 
dated May 4th, reports him as absent on furlough. The same 
notation occurs on the return of 2d June, and that for June, 
dated 13 July, shows he was absent "on Court Martial."^ 

There is extant in Colonel Angell's copy-book, which he 
began at Valley Forge, a copy of the third letter he wrote, and 
probably dated in early February. This letter was addressed 
to one of the officers named in General Vamiun's letter of Janu- 
ary 2d. Colonel Angell alludes to the severe season of the year, 
and referring to his men, wrote: 

Any thing more then to See them all Swept away by Sickness 
that does not Desert. When we consider the fatigue that they 
have gone through. And now at this Sevear Season of the year, 
are, the greatest part of them almost Stark naked, and Destitute 
of Every necessary of life. Except fresh Beef and flower, which 
they draw, if Vegetables was to be had, they have nothing to 
purchase them with, nor I see no prospect of their having any- 
thing Soon. The Paymasters Setts off for Lancaster tomorrow 
To See if they can finde the Paymaster General, but whether 

when they have found him, by the best information can 

get there will be no money for them. Three of our men have 
deserted to the Enemy since you left us, that . . . Viz. 
Enoch Young is one of them, Matthew Bar and Alexandria 
Burt is the others; Bar was as good a Soldier as we had in 
the Reg* and I believe would never deserted had he been Paid 
his money, and had his Cloaths According to Agreement. De- 
sertion is what we may ever expect so long as the Soldiers see 
that the Publick faith is not to be depended upon. I desire you 
would write to me by the first opportunity, and let me know 
whether the black Regt. is like to be raised or not. I have been 
informed that the State is about to raise a Number of troops 
for one year but if the black Regiment is dropt I should think 
that the best Plan [ . . . ] for both the State and Continent 
would [ . . . ] Governor and Council to [Ppetition his] Excel- 
lence, that the two Rhode-Island Regiments might return to 

' Regimental Pay Abstracts in Congressional Library, abstracts in Rhode 
.Island State Library. 



122 Israel Angell 

the State, & drop the raising of the twelve months men, by which 
means I think it likely that the two Continental Reg*^ might be 
safely filled, and as it is less trouble to Command troops Abroad 
than it is at home, they might be marched to any Part of the 
Continent and that Number of Continental Troops from Another 
State Replace them, as I think the troops now about to be 
Raised in the State is more than their Proportion Or more than 
the State is Able to furnish with Cloaths and other Necessaries. 

General Greene was also trying to prevail upon Washington 
to permit the Rhode Island troops to return home. He found 
Washington opposed to his succeeding Spencer in command at 
Rhode Island, and in a letter of 5th February freely criticizes the 
holding of troops at Albany who would be of service in Rhode 
Island. He hoped the Rhode Island regiments might recruit 
with the understanding that they were to rc'main in Rhode 
Island until the British abandoned their posts there.' 

General Greene had charge of the detachments which were 
sent out through the surrounding country, and on some occasions 
accompanied them. It was distasteful duty to all engaged, but 
it was necessary to requisition forage, provisions and horses 
wherever found. The inhabitants, many of whom in that 
vicinity were anything but warm supporters of the American 
cause, much preferred British gold to depreciated Continental 
currency, and concealed whatever they might have on their 
farms which the army needed. But the measures taken, re- 
quired by the inefficiency of Congress and its appointees, saved 
the situation for the army, which was now smaller than ever. 

The business upon which Colonel Angell was engaged in 

' The British occupied Newport 6th December, 1776, and soon took over 
the whole island. They raided Bristol and other points. Rhode Island 
raised a brigade of three regiments, with nominal strength of 750 men each, 
and called upon the militia to guard her shores. Help was summoned from 
the other New England states. In November, 1777, troops were collected, 
almost entirely militia, strengthened by some imits of state troops, and 
General Spencer, who was in command, hoped to drive the enemy from Rhode 
Island. The lack of boats, and other circumstances, caused the expedition to 
be given up, and the militia returned to their homes disgusted. On 5th No- 
vember, 1777, Washington wrote to Heath: "The expedition to Rhode Island 
is just as much a secret to me as it is to you. I never was consulted upon 
it, neither do I know from whence or whom it originated." Heath Papers, 
1:78. 



Military Life 123 

February was undoubtedly that of leading a foraging party, as 
well as intercepting supplies for the enemy. 

HeadQuarters Valley Forge i^* Feby 1778 
Sir: 

I am favoured with yours of yesterday. As it is my wish to 
cut off the intercourse with Phila as effectually as possible, I 
desire that no passes may be granted by you to any persons 
upon any pretense whatsoever; and that you will do all in your 
power to apprehend those who attempt to go into the City with 
merketting. There is no way so likely to put a total stop to 
this practice as making an Example of some notorious offender. 
If therefor you can hear of any person who has made a practice 
of going to Philadelphia with provisions or horses I would wish 
you to take pains to have him apprehended. 

I am Sir 

Your Most Obed. Ser^. 
C0I9 Angell. Geo Washington 

This duty necessitated Colonel Angell visiting parts of New 
Jersey and upper Pennsylvania, and on his return, learning of 
the failure of Major Thayer to receive recognition due him for 
his gallant defence of Fort Mifflin, and of another's having had 
the honor ascribed to him, he wrote the letter already referred 
to, describing Major Thayer's part in holding the fort against 
such heavy odds. This letter was dated the 17th February. 

The high opinion held by those best acquainted with the cir- 
cumstances, concerning the New England line regiments, is ex- 
pressed in a letter from General Sullivan to Meshech Weare, 13*^ 
February, 1777: 

General Washington made no scruple to say, publicly, that the 
remnant of the Eastern regiments were the strength of his army. 
... At Princeton, when the Seventeenth regiment had thrown 
thirty-five hundred Southern militia into the utmost confusion, 
a regiment of Yankees restored the day. This General Mifflin 
confessed to me, though the Philadelphia papers tell us a differ- 
ent story. 

On another occasion Washington wrote to his stepson, from 
Morristown, 226. January, 1777, concerning the Eastern troops: 



124 Israel Angell 

I always have, and always shall say, that I do not believe that 
any of the states produce better men, or persons capable of 
making better soldiers, . . . we have found, that wherever a 
regiment is well officered, their men have behaved well — when 
otherwise, ill . . . no people fly to arms readier than they do, 
or come better equipped, or with more regularity into the field 
than they. 

A return of the 26. Rhode Island regiment dated 28th Feb- 
ruary, 1778, for the month of February, shows the following field 
and staff: 

Israel Angell, colonel, 

Jeremiah Olney, lieutenant-colonel, 

Simeon Thayer, major, 

Thomas Waterman, adjutant, 

Charles Holden, paymaster, 

Samuel Tenney, surgeon, ^ 

John Parish, surgeon's mate, 

Benjamin Peckham, quartermaster, 

Nathan Whittlesey, quartermaster-sergeant, 

William Proctor, sergeant-major, 

Daniel Hudson, fife-major. 

No change appears in the abstracts for March and April. ^ 
The abstract for May bears the title of "ist Rhode Island 
Battalion," and this change from 2d to ist, was retained for 
several months. In May the names of the captains appear as 
follows: William Tews, Coggeshall Olney, David Dexter, 
Stephen Olney, William Allen, William Potter, Thomas Hughes, 
William Humphrey. These officers commanded the companies 
numbered one to eight in the order given. Colonel Angell's 
signature appears on this abstract as it does on that for June 
and July.^ 

Baron Steuben arrived in Camp 27th February. He was 
amazed at the conditions which he found. Men in rags, half 

^ While Colonel Angell was with his regiment on the Jersey side of the river, 
a general order of General Washington designated Doctor Samuel Tenney, 
surgeon of his regiment, to act as Surgeon General of the army until one shall 
be properly authorized by Doctor Cockran. This was on the 25th November. 

^ Mass. Archives, Revolutionary, 47: 277-82, 

3 The same officers, given in February and May, appear on the roll for 
January, 1778, with the addition of the name of Ebenezer David, chaplain, 
against whose name is "discharged 20 Jan. 1778." He died 19 March, 1778. 



Military Life 125 

naked, starving; officers appearing at "grand parade" in blankets 
arranged as a kind of dressing gown in lieu of a coat. So little 
was known of the approved European methods of handling the 
arms that Steuben, himself, would seize a musket and go through 
the manual, and took upon himself the duties of a drill sergeant. 
His ability and enthusiasm soon had effect, and the officers of 
the army did their best to emulate him. 

On the 20th of March, Colonel Angell is mentioned in orders 
in connection with the court-martial of a lieutenant who refused 
duty, but during parts of the months of April and May, Colonel 
Angell was absent on furlough. On the 28th of March he wrote 
the following urgent letter^ to the Governor and Council, ac- 
knowledging the receipt of eight boxes of clothing, but insufficient 
to wholly supply the regiment. 

Camp Valley Forge, March 28*^ 1778 
Gentleman 

Although I had the Satisfaction to receive eight boxes of 
Clothing, from the state, the i6th Instant, which in some meas- 
ure Releiv? the Troops under my Command, from the Great 
Difficulties and hardships under which they then Labour"^; yet 
as there was Not a Sufficiency to serve the whole, I am under 
a Necessity of applying for Further Supplies; there are still 
many in the Regiment who are unfit for duty, for want of Cloaths; 
& others [will] soon be in the same Situation, Frequent. Applica- 
tions have been made to the Cloathier General; but the Demands 
on him are so Great that he is unable to afford us much Assist- 
ance, and tho we have Receiv? small Quantities of several 
Articles from him, yet there is no prospect of being able to obtain 
Enough to Compleat the men. I have Inclos^ a Return of the 
Cloathing wanted, which I am constrain'd, by the duty I owe 
those under me, to Request may be forwarded with all possible 
Dispatch. This, Together with what we have receiv^, will 
probably last us till the Fall ; by that time I imagine we shall have 
Occasion for a new suit, which I wish, on account of the Influ- 
ence it may have on the minds and Behaviour of the Troops, 
might be uniform in Colour and facings; to be able to make a 
handsome appearance Naturally inspires men with a laudable 
Pride and ambition; which will not only induce them to keep 
themselves Clean and whole, but stimulates them also to behave 
like men in the field of Battle. 

Tho' the Army in General is remarkably Healthy, I am sorry 

' From the letter-book. 



126 Israel Angell 

to inform you that a very great sickness and mortality prevail 
among the Rhode Island Troops, which is judg'^ to proceed in 
some measure from the badness of there Cloaths, I sincerely 
hope that thro the spirited Exertions of the Gentlemen appointed 
for cloathing the Troops, there sufferings are approaching to a 
Speedy End, — Permit me. Gentlemen, thro your means, to in- 
form the friends of the ReV^ Mr David, late Chaplain of my 
Regiment, that that worthy Divine Departed this life the 19*^ 
inst. at Lancaster of a tedious putrid Fever. 

I have Nothing further to Communicate at this time, but 
that I have the Honour to be, with due Respect, 

Gentlemen 
To the Hon'^^^ the Governor your most Obedient & 

& Council of the State of most Humble Servant. 

Rhode Island. Israel Angell Col? 

Colonel Angell was in Rhode Island on May 6th when 
Washington published the announcement of the French Alliance. 
This was a grand occasion. The various brigades were formed; 
the chaplains read the Gazette and then offered a prayer of 
Thanksgiving. A salute of thirteen guns was fired, followed by 
a "feu de joie " from right to left along the line. At a signal the 
whole army shouted "Huzza, Long Live the King of France," 
and upon another signal "Long live the friendly European 
powers," and finally after another national salute and a running 
fire of musketry, "Huzza to the American States." Instruc- 
tions for the day, and all the details thereof, were given in Wash- 
ington's orders of the 5th of May. On the 7th of May all officers 
in camp were required to take the oath of allegiance to the 
United States. During Colonel Angell's absence, John Lewis 
Drew, one of his regiment, having threatened the lives of several 
officers of the regiment was sentenced to receive sixty lashes. 
This was the 30th of May, and on the 5th of June, William 
Powell, having deserted from Angell's regiment and enlisted in 
another, was sentenced to receive 300 lashes and return to his 
former regiment. Washington mercifully reduced the punish- 
ment to 100 lashes. 

With the coming of warm weather the huts were abandoned, 
and the troops moved into tents. During May^ the British made 

' On 20th May Lafayette who was nearly cut off by the British at Barren 
Hill, was not sorry he had with him a detachment from Angell's regiment. 




^^:^E@^^' 



Military Life 127 

preparations to abandon Philadelphia, and on the i8th June 
began their march across New Jersey for New York. 

On the 23d of May General Lee took over the command of 
the division lately commanded by General Greene, to which 
Varnum's brigade was attached,^ as Greene had accepted the 
post of Quartermaster General. 

Colonel Angell was on his way back to the army when 
Washington set forth in ptirsuit of Clinton. The battle of Mon- 
mouth (28th June) was fought on one of the hottest days of the 
year, and in that battle Angell's regiment, commanded by 
Lieut. Colonel Olney took part. ^ Lee's conduct on that day was 
resented by Washington, and his letters to the Commander in 
Chief, complaining of the latter's treatment to him, caused 
charges to be presented against him. 

After the battle of Monmouth, Clinton drew away, unmo- 
lested, toward New York, and Washington into the highlands 
of New Jersey, and finally to Westchester County, New York. 

In the meantime Colonel Angell, who had joined the army, 
had been detached for duty with the Court Martial to consider 
the charges against Lee.^ This court consisted of Major Gen- 
eral Stirling, Brigadier Generals Smallwood, Poor, Woodford, 
Huntington, and Colonels Irvine, Shepard, Swift, Wigglesworth, 
Angell, Clarke, Williams, and Febiger. John Lawrence was 
Judge Advocate General. As originally drawn the order for 
the court designated Colonels Grayson and Johnson, who were 
relieved by Irvine and Shepard, by orders dated the 2d and 3d 
July. The court was first called for 2d July, but was postponed, 
and its first meeting was 4th July at New Brunswick. The 
charges were disobedience of orders in not attacking the enemy, 
misbehavior before the enemy, unnecessary, disorderly, and 
shameful retreat, and for disrespect to the Commander in Chief 
in two letters, dated 28th June and ist July. On loth July the 
court sat at Paramus, on the 17th at Peekskill, and on the 21st 

' Orderly Book of General George Weedon at Valley Forge. 

^ Varnum's entire brigade on the day of the battle numbered but between 
300 and 350 men, and the brigade was commanded by Colonel Durkee. 
See testimony of Lieut. Colonel Brooks at Lee's trial. Major Thayer and 
Lieutenant Nathan Weeks, both of Angell's regiment, were wounded. 

3 G. O., Spotswood, 1st July, 1778, 



128 Israel Angell 

at Northcastle, and on that day Lieut. -Colonel Olney gave his 
testimony, which was favorable to Lee. The last session was 
held at Northcastle, August 12th, 1778. Immediately upon ad- 
journment of the court, Colonel Angell made preparations to join 
his regiment, which had already marched to Connecticut. 

The finding of the Court Martial was unknown to Greene as 
late as 28th August. It was not until after he had met Colonel 
Angell during the Rhode Island Campaign, that he was able to 
form a definite opinion, and even then neither he nor Angell 
knew if the verdict of guilty found by the court had been ap- 
proved by the Commander in Chief.' 

On the 3d July the army was at New Brunswick, N. J., and 
the General Orders^ for the day direct that on the following day 
the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence would be 
observed by a salute of 13 guns and a feu-de-joie along the whole 
line. The army to be formed on the Brunswick side of the 
Raritan at 5 P.M. On the 24th the army reached White Plains. 
The crossing was at Kings Ferry. 

Persifer Frazer, writing from Greenwich, Conn., 23d July, 
tells his wife that two brigades of New England troops marched 
from that place on the morning of the 22d for Rhode Island. 
This march through Connecticut can be followed by references 
in Stiles's diary and letters of Lafayette. There is also preserved 
in the Library of Congress, an undated paper entitled, "The 
Rout of Col. Angel's Regt." The distances and route to be 
followed are given as follows: Groton to Salem, 14 miles; to 
Danbury, 10; to Newton, 10; to Woodbury, 10; to Southington, 
10; Farmington, 10; to Hartford, 10; a total of 86 miles; to 
Bolton, 14; to Windham, 17; to Canterbury, 10; to Plainfield, 4; 
to Voluntown, 4; to Coventry, 7; to Providence, 18; a grand 
total of 160 miles. The regiments marching by way of Stamford, 
covered a distance of 164 miles. 

Lafayette, who commanded the column,^ on 28th July wrote 

' " People are very anxious to hear the issue of General Lee's trial. Various 
are the conjectures, but everybody agrees he is not acquitted." Greene to 
Washington, Aug. 28 ^h. Washington laid the findings of the court, which 
omitted the word "shameful" from the charge, before Congress 20th August. 

^ Itinerary of Washington. 

^Washington on 226. July, instructed Lafayette: "You are to have the 



Military Life 129 

from Saybrook, where they were crossing the "Grand river," to 
General SulHvan: "General Vamum is of the opinion that the 
upper road is better than the lower. We parted the day before 
yesterday, and he went by that with his brigade and Jackson's 
Regiment, while I am marching this." Lafayette, with Glover's 
brigade, had hoped to reach Coventry by the 31st.* In this he 
was disappointed. He had not progressed beyond Norwich on 
the 30th, as he had to keep his troops in condition "for fighting 
soon after their arrival." He himself intended to proceed to 
Coventry, to receive Vamum's brigade which were some miles 
ahead, and had "marched very quick." 

Varnum's brigade was encamped at Johnstown on the 3d 
August, and the following day General Varnum addressed 
General Sullivan, who had notified him to have his brigade 
under arms at three o'clock, that previous to the receipt of the 
order, "not imagining you would review them until the marquis 
should return from the field," he had put his men "in dishabille," 
but would be completely prepared at eight o'clock the following 
morning "on the Plains this side of Providence."^ 

One-half the effective militia of Rhode Island were called 
out August first, and troops were expected from the other 
New England states. Sullivan concentrated his forces at Tiv- 
erton. The British destroyed their shipping, to prevent the 
vessels falling into the hands of the French, and to obstruct the 
entrance into the harbor, but this did not prevent the French 
entering the harbor on the 8th August. By the destruction of 
the British vessels 212 guns were silenced. D'Estaing landed 

immediate com^mand of that detachmient from this army, which consists of 
Glover's and Vamum's brigades, and the detachment under the command 
of Colonel Henry Jackson. You are to march them with all convenient 
expedition and by the best routes to Providence." Later Washington ordered 
General Greene to Rhode Island, and instructed General Sullivan to divide 
his army into two divisions, making an equal distribution of Continental, 
State, and militia forces, one to be commanded by Greene, the other by 
Lafayette. General Steuben was instructed by Congress, to repair to Rhode 
Island, to give his advice and assistance to General Sullivan. Washington 
entertained the hope that the successful culmination of the Rhode Island 
Campaign "would have given the finishing blow to British pretensions of 
sovereignty over this country." 

'Sparks MSS., 49, iii:33. » Sparks MSS., 20: 394. 

9 



130 Israel Angell 

about 4000 troops on Conanicut Island, which were intended to 
cooperate with SulHvan, who, however, being strongly reen- 
forced, crossed to the island of Rhode Island from Tiverton on 
the ninth, occupying the posts abandoned that day by the enemy. 
The French reembarked their troops on the tenth, and in accord- 
ance with the decision of the council of naval officers, D'Estaing 
decided to give battle to the fleet of Lord Howe which had been 
sighted the preceding evening. 

According to the narrative of Samuel Smith, a soldier in 
Angell's regiment, the regiment had just reached the island, and 
had not had time to erect their tents before the storm broke. 
This was the great storm of the 12th and 15th August which 
shattered the hopes of cooperation by the French fleet in the 
attack upon Newport, for when D'Estaing reached port after his 
futile meeting with the English fleet, his ships were so much in 
need of repairs that he dared not remain in Narraganset Bay. 
The troops suffered severely, being mostly without shelter. 
Many horses, and it is said some of the men, died, unable to 
stand the exposure. 

On the 13th the main body of troops was posted on Quaker 
Hill. On the morning of the 15th the army advanced to within 
two miles of the town of Newport. 

On the 17th August the remaining effectives of the Rhode 
Island militia were called upon to supply the loss of the French 
contingent. The enthusiasm of the American troops was intense. 
Their strength was about 10,000. On the night of the sixteenth 
a fatigue party of 800 Americans supported by a detachment of 
1000 men, took possession of a hill commanding the British front 
lines, about half a mile from their works, and by the morning of 
the 17th had partially opened a covered way, referred to by 
Colonel Angell in his diary of the 24th. To the right a battery 
was begun, and within twenty-four hours this battery and the 
covered way were nearly completed. ■ The detachment com- 
manded by Colonel Angell was to protect this work. The next 
few days was devoted to construction of works, and on the 21st 
the French fleet returned. 

Colonel Angell may have arrived in time to have joined the 
army by the fifteenth, but the first few pages of his diary cover- 

■ Letters of Lyman to Heath, Heath Papers, vol. ii, 255 et seq. 



Military Life 131 

ing this period are lost. The first entry is under date of August 
20, 1778.' 

Colonel Angell's participation in the activities of the next ten 
days is learned from his diary. ^ 

On the 20th Colonel Angell notes, "A cloudy, foggy morning, 
but broke away by nine o'clock, and the cannon begun to play. 
Governor Bradford came to my quarters this day and dined 
with us. I was ordered on duty today, and marched with a 
detachment of 500 men as a covering party at five o'clock, P. M., 
and relieved Colonel Wigglesworth. The French fleet not being 
yet heard of, spread great consternation in the army." The 
following day his detachment was subjected to heavy fire, and 
one man had the calf of his leg shot away. Angell was relieved 
by Colonel Jacobs at nine o'clock that evening. On the 22d he 
notes that cannon were placed in position the preceding evening, 
and that the thick weather had prevented their use as early as 

' Lyman wrote on the 21st "On the 19th we oppen'd one battery of 
four 18 pounders commanded by Lincoln of my reg* We soon silenced two 
of their redoubts, one they have entirely quitted, and the other they have 
not fired from since. We also killed two of the enemy and wounded one. We 
have had one kill'd and one wounded. On the 20th we oppen'd another 
battery of four 18 pds and two howitzers, and kept up a considerable fire 
yesterday, but with what effect cannot say. We are now making our advance 
very fast and expect in a few days to have one bomb battery and six others 
mounted with 24 and 18 pds. We open a battery this day of two 24 and two 
18 pds, near 200 yards advanced of the first. We have had 102 deserters 
from the enemy since my arrival in camp. . . The enemies' works, redoubts, 
lines &c., extend from Tammany Hill to a beach of neck near two miles, 
within which is a pond on their right and the river on their left. . . . the 
French . . are this moment in sight and coming up the harbour or river. 
They have taken one frigate and one bomb ketch, one of their ships dismasted.' ' 

^ Diary of Colonel Israel Angell, Commanding the Second Rhode Island 
Continental Regiment during the American Revolution, 1 778-1 781. Tran- 
scribed from the original manuscript, together with a biographical sketch of 
the Author and illustrative notes by Edward Field, A. B., Historian of the 
Rhode Island Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Providence, 
R. I., Preston and Rounds, 1899, pp. 149. The diary covers the periods, 
20th August, 1778, to 1st February, 1779, inclusive, i8th June, 1779, to 13th 
December, 1779, inclusive, loth August, 1780, to 30th September, 1780, 14th 
February, 1781, to 3d April, 1781. The originals of the diary are in possession 
of Mr. H. I. Angell, Chester, N. Y., and photostat prints in possession of 
Mrs. F. H. Lovell, Washington, D. C. 



132 Israel Angell 

would have otherwise been the case. This day also he notes 
that on the evening of the 20th an express had come from 
the French admiral, and that on the 21st, "we saw the ships, 
two of them had been dismasted in the late storm, one was the 
Admiral's ship, she was totally dismasted; the other had her 
mizzen mast carried away, and her main top." On the 23d he 
dined with General Greene. That day "a most terrible cannon- 
ade" was kept up. The diary also gives expressions to the 
feeling prevalent in the army: "the French fleet left us today 
bound to Boston, and I think left us in a most rascally manner; 
and what will be the event God only knows." On the 24th, the 
cannonade continued "very severe," and the Colonel and Lieu- 
tenant Colonel Olney were "curious enough to measure all the 
covered way, which was 1512 yards." The 25th saw precautions 
taken in case of a necessary retreat; the heavy baggage being 
got off. The Colonel sent off his "marque," and took quarters 
with Colonel Livingston and Major Huntington. That night 
all the teams were mustered "and proceeded to the lower works 
in order to get off all the Cannon and mortar as a retreat was 
determined upon." On the 27th, the Diary records, "I had one 
Ensign and 14 men taken prisoners (last evening) by the 
British troops as they was a setting their sentries. The ensign 
was John Viol. General Varnum formed an expedition against a 
picquet, which lay near our right wing, which proved unfortu- 
nate, being drove off with the loss of one lieutenant and three 
privates. I was officer of the day today. Three large ships ar- 
rived in the harbor, supposed to be from New York. I dined with 
Colonel Greene thro' day, and spent the greatest part of the after- 
noon in visiting the Guard." On the 28th orders to move having 
been countermanded, Angell's command tarried on the ground. 
That evening orders were received to strike tents and march to 
the north end of the Island. "The advanced picquet was to 
come off at 12 o'clock. The enemy, finding that we had left our 
ground, pursued with all possible speed; came up with our 
picquet about sunrise, and a smart firing began. The picquet 
repulsed the British troops two or three times, but was finally 
obliged to retreat, as the enemy brought a number of field pieces 
against them. The enemy was soon checked by our cannon in 
comming up to our main body, and they formed on Quaker Hill, 



Military Life i33 

and we took possession of Buttses Hill. The left wing of the 
British was composed of the Hessians, who attacked our right 
wing and severe engagement ensued, in which the Hessians were 
put to flight and beat off the ground with a considerable loss. 
Our loss was not very great, but I cannot ascertain the nimiber. 
I was ordered with my regiment to a redoubt on a small hill, 
which the enemy was trying for, and it was with difficulty that 
we got there before the enemy. ' I had three or four men killed 
and wounded today. At night I was ordered with my regiment 
to lie on the lines. I had not slept then in two nights more than 
two or three hours; the regiment had eat nothing during the 
whole day. This was our situation to go on guard, but we 
marched off cheerfully and took our post." 

The following morning Colonel Angell's regiment was re- 
lieved, and got provisions, and their commander went to a house 
and had "a good knap." The troops were under fire, and that 
night "received orders to retreat off the Island, which we did 
without the loss of anything. This retreat was in consequence of 
an express from General Washington informing General Sullivan 
that the British ships of war and transports had sailed from New 
York, some days before." On 31st August Angell notes, "Our 
retreat off the Island was completed by three o'clock this morn- 
ing. It is supposed the enemy attempted a retreat last evening 
but after finding that we had retreated, they returned to their 
ground, as it was late in the morning before they took possession 
of the forts we left." 

The retreat from the island practically ended the campaign. 
The hopes, once so high, of the Rhode Islanders, were completely 
dashed. Their harbors were to be blockaded for another year, 
and during all that year the State was obliged to watch and 
guard her long coast line. 

The campaign was well planned; the retreat was admirably 
conducted. The Island of Rhode Island extends north and south, 

' Smith, in his Memoirs, relates that the retreat was so conducted that the 
Rhode Island brigade was the rear guard, and that about "sunrise it became 
our turn to fight, and we descended on a party of British at the fort on Butts' 
Hill"; that the enemy scaled the walls on one side while the men of Angell's 
regiment entered the gate, and that after completely driving the enemy from 
the fort, their party dismotmted and spiked the cannon, and withdrew. 



134 Israel Angell 

wider at the southern extremity, where Newport is, which then 
was a larger and more important town than Providence. The 
island is about seventeen miles long, but from the ferry, where 
the American forces crossed, to the British lines about Newport 
it was only about eleven miles. The British retired from their 
posts in the northern part of the island to lines drawn closely 
about Newport. These lines consisted of earth works running 
from the western end of Easton's beach northerly about three 
miles, following the height of land to a point east of Tominy 
Hill, on which there was a strong fortification, and extended 
westerly along the northerly edge of the hill to Coddington's 
Cove, about a mile and a half. Something over a mile in the 
rear of these northern works was a parallel line. The British posi- 
tions were very strong, and were defended by a force variously 
estimated as from five to seven thousand men, with ample ar- 
tillery. The guns were largely manned by sailors from the ships 
which had been destroyed to save them from the French. 

The departure of the French fleet caused great indignation. 
General Sullivan went so far as to let his own feelings be learned 
from a paragraph in the Orders of the Day, which later he 
attempted to cover by another order. Samuel Barrett wrote to 
General Heath on the afternoon of Sunday, 23d August: "What 
could the worst enemy have done more to decieve and injure us 
than by the most specious allurements, and under every assurance 
of support, to draw us into a most critical and hazzardous 
enterprize and leave us in the very moment of execution, and 
by withdrawing that support either expose the flower of the 
New England States to be cut off or their reputation to un- 
merited censure." Lafayette the same day wrote to Heath, re- 
counting what had already been accomplished by the French, 
and explaining the necessity of their refitting the fleet. He was 
as much chagrinned as any of the American officers, but at- 
tempted to make the most of the situation. Writing of the sally 
of the fleet to meet the British fleet he said, that the Admiral 
"immediately repass'd under the same batteries, movs against 
the British fleet, puts them to flight, and pursues them every- 
where. In the middle of the victory, when the enemy's fleet 
was ready to be destroyed or taken, that extraordinary and 



Military Life i35 

unheard of storm divides them all. The Languedoc of i lo guns, 
the Marseillais of 74 are dismasted and rendered unfitt for any 
service. The Caesar was lost, and the British fleet makes theyr 
escape, with the trifling loss of two ships, among them a frigatte. 
However, the admiral had promised to come back here, and he 
kept his word : but as he had instructions from the king for going 
to Boston in case of any misfortune happening to his ships, as he 
received intelligence from 0"^ of the Americans that a superior 
fleet was arrived, as he received also the most pressing repre- 
sentations from his captains, as he was assured by American 
generals that we did not run any risk ourselves, and that his 
land troops were not necessary to us, he sailed for Boston." 

The result of the departure of the French was the desertion 
of many of the American volunteers, who at once assumed that 
the operation was over. Many of the militia also returned to 
their homes. On the 24th Sullivan's effective force was reduced 
to 8174 rank and file, exclusive of artillery. Nevertheless it was 
determined to make at least one attempt to force the British lines, 
before the arrival of the reenforcements which now it was known 
had sailed from New York for Newport. 

The American army met with no opposition in making its 
way down the island, and placing their batteries on high land to 
the east of the height of land east of Newport. The American 
outposts were well advanced on Easton's beach, and it was from 
that point that General Greene advised that an attack be made, 
in the hope of breaking through and cutting off the British, who 
were to be engaged all along the front lines. It was recognized 
as a desperate attempt, and abandoned because the force which 
could be used was insufficient to prevent disaster. It was at 
Easton's beach that the picket sent out from Angell's regiment 
was cut off. 

On the night of the 28th the American forces silently withdrew 
from the entrenchments, and the entire army marched rapidly 
toward positions prepared on the hills at the northern end of the 
island. The following morning the British obtained possession 
of Turkey and Quaker Hills, and artillery having been brought up, 
an attempt was made to force the American lines at Barrington 
and Butts' Hills. General Greene taking advantage of the fact 
that the enemy had advanced too quickly, and was not well sup- 



136 Israel Angell 

ported, and not superior in numbers to his own division, attacked 
and drove them from the advanced position they had taken. The 
two main roads from Newport to the Ferry, known as the East 
and West roads, passed respectively over Quaker and Butts' Hills, 
and it was along these roads the pursuit had come. The Ameri- 
can battle was formed with Livingston and Tyler on the extreme 
western and eastern flanks respectively, with Varnum's brigade 
on the right of the line. Here was the regiment commanded by 
Colonel Angell, although earlier in the day his command had been 
used to retake the redoubt on the western extension of Butts' 
Hill and to repel an attack made at that point. That appears to 
have been the "high water" mark of the British pursmt. Then 
had followed the counter attack by Greene. Next to Varnum's 
brigade was Cornell's, and on the extreme left was Glover's 
brigade, and between Glover and Cornell, a brigade commanded 
by Lieut.-Colonel Christopher Greene, including the battal- 
ion of negroes, Indians, and mulattoes known as the Black Regi- 
ment. This battalion was commanded by Major Ward, and 
numbered perhaps as many as 140 men, who behaved as well as 
any troops who had never before been under fire. With white 
troops they repelled an assault by the Hessians made with the 
bayonet. Their part in the fight has been absurdly praised and 
exaggerated. The British and Hessians were defeated in their 
attempt to carry the American position. The hottest part of the 
day's work was between ten o'clock and noon. The cannonade 
continued the rest of the day, and the British expected a renewal 
of the attack. Both armies rested expectantly throughout the 
night of the 29th and day of the 30th. During the night 
of the 30th without awakening suspicion General Sullivan 
withdrew the remainder of his forces from the island. Gen- 
eral Lafayette, who had been in Boston, returned in time to 
take command of the rear guard as it was crossing to the 
mainland. 

After the battle of Rhode Island the brigade was stationed 
at Bristol and Warren, to guard the approaches to Providence. 
There was a ferry from Bristol to Rhode Island. Colonel Angell's 
regiment marched from their camp at Tiverton on the second of 
September, and took post at Bristol. The regiment remained 
there until the eighteenth when it moved to a camp a little more 



Military Life i37 

than a mile above Warren, and there, having erected rude bar- 
racks, remained until the following June. 

General Varnum's quarters were at the Bradford home. On 
the 6th September the guns of the British ships raiding New 
Bedford were plainly heard in the Bristol camp, ard on various 
occasions Colonel Angell mentions in his diary distant firing, but 
no alarms seemed to have disturbed the monotony of the camp. 

The officers and men of the 2d Rhode Island were afforded 
many opportunities to visit their homes. Many overstayed their 
leave, or were absent without leave, which led to court martials 
and condign punishment. 

Colonel Angell was president of a general court martial early 
in December, and on the last day of the year sat that and the 
two following days as president of a brigade court martial, at 
Warren. The findings of the court were published in General 
Orders, Jan. 5th, 1779.^ Several officers were found guilty of the 
charges presented; the only one of Angell 's regiment being Cap- 
tain David Dexter, charged with leaving his post on Christmas, 
and being absent without leave until the 29th, and behaving 
unbecoming of an officer, inasmuch as he associated with the 
wagon master of the brigade. 

Lieut. -Colonel Olney, who had distinguished himself in direct- 
ing the departure of the rear guard from the island and had 
received mention in General Orders, had been much exposed and 
was obliged to seek treatment in Providence, for he "was exceed- 
ing much unwell with ague in his face." He returned on the 15th, 
affording Colonel Angell an opportunity a few days later to take 
sick leave, as on the i8th he suffered an attack of malaria. The 
regimental surgeon^ accompanied him to his home in Johnston. 
The diary is missing from 23rd September to 12th December. On 
the latter date Angell notes he left home for Warren and on ar- 
rival found all well. The return for his regiment for the months 
of August and September was dated at Warren, October 9th, 
when it was noted that the Colonel was "on command." To 

' See Diary of Colonel Israel Angell, pp. 36, 38, where details may be 
read. Vamum wrote 4th January to Sullivan, of the bravery of Captain 
Dexter, but that he had deserved "cashiering" frequently. Every honorable 
measure had been taken to reclaim him from dissipation. Sparks MSS. 

^ Elias Cornelius. He was a prisoner at Staten Island, 22d August, 1778. 



138 Israel Angell 

what duty he was detailed is not told. Christmas week was 
exceedingly cold. From the 7th to the 20th January, 1779, the 
Colonel was again at his home in Johnston. 

On the 28th January, 1779, the first recorded trouble in Var- 
num's brigade occurred. Colonel Angell notes in his diary under 
that date: 

In the afternoon, Col. Webb's regt. mutinied, and turned 
out under arms, but was with some difficulty dispersed, but at 
night they all paraded and marched to the barracks where my 
men was, and about forty of my regt. joined them. After talking 
some time with them they all dispersed and remained in peace the 
night. Jan. 29. At roll call I ordered four of my men whipped 
for attempting and robbing a corporal for informing the officers 
that they were turning out with their arms. In the afternoon I 
and Gen. Varnum went to Providence, from thence I went to my 
father's and there tarried the night. 

From North Providence he went to his own home, and did not 
return to camp until the first of February, where he "found all 
well." Evidently the "mutiny" had been a matter of small 
moment, as it did not prevent the commanding general of the 
brigade and the colonel of one of the regiments participating, from 
leaving camp for a few days. 

There are several references in Angell 's diary to the difficulty 
in obtaining commissary and quartermaster supplies for his regi- 
ment. During the extreme cold weather which prevailed in the 
latter part of December, 1778, the Colonel, with the good of the 
men in mind, ■ took advantage of the arrival in Warren of a trader 
from New Bedford, and bought of him 288 pair of shoes, at an 
expense of $1200. He was unfiagging in his efforts to relieve the 
necessities of the men in his regiment. The condition of the com- 

' The following instruction to Lieutenant Carpenter indicates that the 
Colonel was equally solicitous with regard to the welfare of his officers: 

Warren 28th March, 1779 
S^ As there is not a sufficient Quantity of State Stores on hand to bring 
up ye Soldiers equal to ye Officers, the Soldier having a greater proportion 
than the Officer, and not making so prudent a use of it. You will therefore 
deliver to ye Officers as it becomes due to them. 

I am S^ y^ humble Serv!^ 

Israel Angell, Co^ 



Military Life i39 

missary grew worse as the season advanced. The following 
letter was written by General Gates at this time : 



Providence May ist 1779 
Sir: 

Whatever be the Cause Which prevents our Magazines from 
being regularly Supplied the Consequence is the same. Two 
Mutinies have already happened within these two Days. It is 
true that they have been quelled though with Difficulty; but the 
success I have had depending on the Accomplishment of my 
Promise, "that the Army would be immediately supplied" and 
the Stores being now empty, I am perplexed how to quiet starved 
soldiers, who being excited to sedition by British Emisaries, will 
not bear Want with becoming Patience. 

I trust, Sir, that you will distinguish yourself at this juncture, 
and prove that you are worthy of the important trust reposed in 
you. 

At this and the other Posts in our Neighborhood, the Stores 
are this day, quite empty! You must feel for me, as a Patriot 
and an officer 

With the Sentiments which the hopes of seeing this Part of 
the Army preserved by your Activity, inspire me for you I am 

Your most Obt Servant 

Horatio Gates 

Colonel Wadsworth 



One of the outbreaks mentioned by General Gates is un- 
doubtedly referred to in the following letter. Unfortunately, the 
Diary fails us, and very little information is available concerning 
this "mutiny." It is probable that the Colonel was able to 
placate the men. 

Warren 2y^ April 1779 
Dear Gen} 

I arriv'd in Garrison this Evening about Nine o Clock and to 
my Surprise found my Reg. had mutinied and was then all under 
Arms. The guard had joined them, and was in possession of the 
Artillery, and Remain in this mutinious position. I beg the Gen^ 
to Send a brigade to Suppress the riot, they Say they will march 
to providence and what the event will be God only knows I have 
not time to write more at present. 

I am Sir your Hiun^^ Serv* 

Israel Angell 



140 Israel Angell 

In May, 1779, Colonel Angell petitioned the General Assembly 
of Rhode Island, setting forth that on the 23d August, 1777, an 
act was passed entitling the officers of the Continental battalions 
of Rhode Island to receive one quarter of their wages in pro- 
visions, at the stipulated prices. As he has never received what 
was due him, he asks the Assembly to permit him to draw what is 
now due, or to appoint a committee to settle with him. A favor- 
able answer was made to this prayer, and the Council of War was 
directed to settle with him on the basis of a quarter part of his pay 
in provisions, or to make him a reasonable allowance for the same 
in money. 

Following the successful outcome of the petition in his own 
behalf, Colonel Angell now sought to follow up the advantage by 
seeking recognition for his men in their demand for the amount 
due them in rum, sugar, and coffee: 

Camp Graves Hill 15^^ June 1779 
Gentlemen 

Permit me once more to trouble you, in behalf of the troops 
under my Command, by an Act of the Honourable General As- 
sembly of this State in October 1778. The officers of the Con- 
tinental Batallions, were entitled to receive one Sixteenth part of 
their wages pF month in Camp in rum Shugar and Coffe at the 
Stated prices, the Noncommissioned officers and Soldiers one 
fourth of their wages as aforesaid, from the first of last November 
to the first of June instant which is Seven months, the Reg* has 
not Rec^ one third of the Stores due, as may be Seen by the in- 
clos'd, and have received but only two months Subsistance money 
allowed by the State. I have Reason to think the Reg* would 
not have been So deficient in their pay, had Col. Thomas Greene 
who was appointed State Commissary, Enjoyed his health, but 
he was taken Sick immediately after his appointment And Still 
remains unable to do the duty. 

I Pray your Honours would be Pleased to appoint Some other 
person to act in the Capassity, that the troops might be paid up, 
which was promist them, and no reason for Complaints given, is 
the Earnest wish and desire of, 

Gentlemen your most Obed. ^ Hum^' Serv* 
Hon¥ GenJ Assembly Israel Angell Col. 2"^ 

State Rhode Island R. I. Regiment. 

Colonel Angell lost two good officers in April and May, as the 
appended letters show : 



Military Life 141 

Warren 13*.'^ April, 1779 

L* Abel Carpenter of my Regim* having applied for a Re- 
commendation for a Discharge from y? Service (tho a good 
officer), as y? Situation of his private Concerns is at present, do, 
concur with him in praying that your Honour would be pleas'd 
to grant him that indulgence. 

I am, S"", with sentiments of Esteem 
Your Honours 
most obedient, Humble Servt 
Majr Geni Gates I. Angell, Col? 

Warren 14*.^ May 1779. — 

Lieut. Benedict Tew of my Regim* having apply'd for a recom- 
mendation for a discharge from y^ Service, altho he is a good 
Officer, and one who I believe has serv'd his Country from y^ 
beginning of yf War to this present time, with as much reputation 
as any of his Rank in y? Army. Yet for y^ following Reasons, do 
hereby recommend him to y? General for a Discharge : He says 
he has no Interest to support himself with, in y? Army, and his 
pay will not support him to live in Character of an Officer; that 
he has long waited with expectation that Congress would make 
some Provision for y^ Army but seeing no prospect of anything 
being done, and being sure, should he live to see y? close of y^ 
War, and y? Officers received nothing but their bare wages for 
their Services, as poor as y? Money now is, that he should then 
after spending y^ flower of his Days in y^ service of his Country, 
be left to beg his Bread. I do concur with him &C. 

I. Angell Col? 
Majr Gen} Gates 

Many changes had taken place in the officer personnel of the 
regiment since the retreat from Rhode Island. Lieutenant Oliver 
Dexter upon refusal to do duty had been dismissed the service, 
loth September, 1778, and on the 15th General Orders announced 
the promotion of Oliver Jenks from 2d to ist lieutenant, his 
appointment to date from the nth. In March, Captain David 
Dexter was restored to rank, "at the request of a number of 
officers," only to be deranged by the new arrangement of the 
1st of April. 

On the 2ist April, Colonel Angell made the following recom- 
mendations to General Gates, who had assumed command on 
the 2d of the month: 



142 Israel Angell 

Warren 21^.* April 1779 
Dear General, 

Having seven Vacancies in my Regim*, one of a Lieu* occa- 
sioned by y^ Resignation of Lieu^ Abel Carpenter, Beg leave to 
recommend Ensign Benj" L. Peckham to fill that Vacancy — 
and as there will then be seven Ensigns wanting, do further 
recommend M'" Jn? M. Greene to be promoted to an Ensign and 
to take Rank from y^ first of last March, and Serjeants Jeremiah 
Greenman, Joseph Masury, Jn9 Rogers, & W*p Pratt to be pro- 
moted to Ensigns. My reasons for desiring that Mr Greene might 
take Rank from y^ first of March past, is that he's a worthy young 
Gentleman, who has served as an Assistant to the Adjutant Gen}, 
and in my opinion ought to take Rank before some Serjeants who 
have been promoted since that time in Gen} Glover's Brigade; 
and as there were several Vacancies in my Regim!^ the first of 
March past, I can see no impropriety in his taking Rank from s^ 
Time. If these Gentlemen are promoted to Commissioned officers, 
I shall then have two Commission'd Officers to a Company for 
duty, which will be sufficient untill I have an opportunity of Re- 
cruiting more Men. 

I am 

Sr&C: 
Majr Gen! Gates I. Angell CqI 

These recommendations were complied with, the appoint- 
ments being announced in General Orders of the 29th. On the 
following day. Lieutenant David Sayles of Angell's was ap- 
pointed quartermaster of the regiment, and Major Box was 
appointed Inspector General of Cornell's and Stark's^ brigades. 
Sullivan relinquished his command on the 28th March, and 
in orders of that day, "Returns thanks to every officer in the 
Department .... for spirited conduct and regular behaviour 
on all occasions. " 

An interesting side light upon desertions^ is afforded by Gen- 

' Stark took command of Varnum's brigade 26th April. 
^ In the newspapers of the day will be found advertisements of which the 
following is an example from the Providence Gazette: 

Four Thousand Dollars Reward. 
Deserted from the Rhode-Island Recruits, John Campbell, a Native of 
Ireland, 43 Years of Age, 5 Feet 7 Inches high, has black Hair, dark Eyes, wore a 
Wig, which 'tis probable he will leave off, his Face much pitted with the Small- 
Pox, is very red, and burned by the Sun. James Duncan, a Native of Scot- 
land, 29 years of Age, 5 Feet 8 Inches high, has dark Hair, blue Eyes, and is of 



Military Life i43 

eral Orders of 24th May, 1779. At a Court Martial at Bristol, on 
the 20th, Nathaniel Gale of Angell's regiment, found guilty of 
desertion to the enemy in 1777, having plead guilty, was sen- 
tenced to 25 lashes, and to be placed on a Continental frigate to 
serve during the war. It developed by examination of Sergeants 
Wilbut and Alford, who were prisoners in New York while Gale 
was with the enemy, that he was anxious to return to his regiment, 
and endeavored to facilitate their escape. At the same court, 
James Lobb and George Thighs of Angell's regiment were tried 
for threatening to desert to the enemy. Thighs was acquitted, 
but Lobb, found guilty, was sentenced to be whipped. James 
King of the same regiment, for threatening the life of Lieutenant 
Peckham and then to desert to the enemy, was sentenced to be 
picketted fifteen minutes, and to receive 100 lashes at four differ- 
ent times. The General approved, and ordered the sentence to 
be carried into effect at such time and place as Colonel Angell 
should direct. 

On the 22d June, Colonel Angell was summoned to attend at 
Headquarters at Providence, and learned that his regiment was to 
move to Boston Neck. While he was absent the officers of his 
regiment and those of Colonel Sherburne's joined in a "grand 
entertainment" at Peck's Rocks at the mouth of Warren River, 
celebrating the supposed victories in South Carolina and Georgia, 
news of which had been received on the i8th and 20th. On the 
17th Colonel Angell had notified General Gates of the shoeless 
condition of his regiment, in the following letter •: 

Camp Graves Hill, 17th June, 1779. 
Dear Gen^: 

Notwithstanding there is a Number of men in my Reg*, bare- 
foot, am under the necessity of Sending back to the Cloathers 

a dark Complexion. Asa Scott, about 24 Years of Age, 6 Feet high, has dark 
Hair, and is light complexioned. Samuel Jones, 28 Years of Age, 5 Feet 4 
Inches high, has dark Hair, and is dark complexioned. Any Person who will 
apprehend either of the above Deserters, and return them to the Rendezvous 
at Providence, shall receive One Thousand Dollars Reward, and all necessary 

Charges, paid by 

SAMUEL WARD, Lt. Col 
Providence, July 12, 1780. 

^Sparks MSS., 49: iii: 115. 



144 Israel Angell 

Store, the Shoes my quarter Master Received in Rehoboth yes- 
terday, for the use of sd Reg*, as one half of them are So Small they 
Cannot be worn by the men, and not knowing wheather the Gen^, 
would approve of the Shoes being pick't over, thought proper to 
Send them alltogether. Should be glad they might be pickt, that 
the men may be supply 'd at present as far as Possible 

am Dear Gen\ with Sentiments of Esteem, 

your most Obd Hum^i Serv* 
Maj* Gen^. Gates Israel Angell 

On the 22d June occurred the first loss by death the regiment 
had sustained since the battle of Rhode Island. Benjamin Bird 
and James Lobb, who has already received mention, both young 
men, were drowned in Kickemuit River. On the 24th the regi- 
ment moved into Warren, and the following day Colonel Angell 
noted in his Diary: 

This morning I turned out by two o'clock, and before four 
had all the troops embarked and on their passage. I tarried, my- 
self, until after breakfast then went on by land in company with 
Lieut. Jeruald and his wife to Providence, as I was a member of a 
Court Martial to set there by adjournment for the trial of Col. 
Vose. • Arrived in Providence half after nine, but the President 
was gone into the country, and I went to Johnston to see my 
family, where I arrived by two o'clock, and found all well, but 
was much unwell myself. 

The regiment encamped at Barber's Heights, a hill in North 
Kingston, from which a view could be obtained of the whole of 
lower Narraganset Bay and several miles out to sea. Colonel 
Angell rejoined his regiment on the 26th, finding Colonel Greene 
and Major Flagg both there, and the entire regiment more or less 
sick from the extreme heat, and the next day he found himself "in 
a shocking situation of health, " but this did not prevent him from 
making an inspection of the shore between the camp and Updike 
Newtown. On the following day he entertained the officers of the 
regiment, it being the anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth. 
From the first to the eighth of July, a convenient Court Martial, 
held at Providence, of which he was a member, and which was 

• The proceedings in the Court Martial trying Colonel Vose are learned 
from an extract from an Orderly Book printed in Field: Diary of Col. Israel 
Angell, p. 54. Vose was acquitted. Several of his officers had brought the 
charges. General Glover was president of the court. 



Military Life i45 

adjourned from time to time, again gave the Colonel an oppor- 
tunity of being at home, and overseeing the raising of a barn on 
his farm. 

He was at Providence on the 3d July, and enlisted two men 
for his regiment, the certificate of which is in the collections of the 
Rhode Island Historical Society: 

Providence July 3, 1779. 

Certify that we have enlisted John Radford and Sylvester 
Davis into the Continental service for the town of Smithfield 
and paid them $6 apeice, and desire you to pay remainder part 
of their bounty. 

Israel Angell Col. 
To Daniel Mowry, Esq. Simeon Thayer Major. 

Smithfield. 

On that day General Orders provided for a feu de joie at 
noon of the fourth, which was to extend from one end of the lines 
to the other. First the Galley was to fire 13 guns, to be followed 
by a like salute from General Cornell's post at Tiverton, then by 
General Sherburne's command, then by the post at Warwick, 
followed by the fort at Pawtuxet, and closed by 13 guns by the 
Park of Artillery at Providence. 

Desertions from the army continued. John Deruse (or De- 
ruce) of Angell 's regiment, for deserting to the enemy and carry- 
ing with him a guard boat, was condemned to suffer death, and 
Joseph Thrasher of the same regiment, for desertion, was sen- 
tenced to receive 100 lashes. These sentences were approved by 
General Gates 14th July, but were not carried into effect, as will 
be seen later. 

Colonel Angell set out for camp on the 8th July, and was the 
guest of Colonel Greene at Greenwich over night. He was 
awakened between two and three o'clock, as he tells in his diary, 
by the firing of small arms, and alarm guns at Newtown and War- 
wick. Setting forth for camp, he met a party of militia, and 
learned that a raiding party from Newport had landed above 
Newtown, and plundered the house of John Dyer. 

Colonel Angell was now to undergo the experience of a serious 
mutiny in his regiment, the result of a misunderstanding among 
the rank and file, who supposed their grievances as to non-pay- 
ment of wages due them had not received consideration. 



146 Israel Angell 

The circumstances are clearly shown by Colonel Angell's 
Diary, and by contemporaneous letters and orders. 

The Diary under July 24th, relates that, 

This morning I sent Lt. Thomas Waterman an express to 
head Qrs. with the returns of my Regt. and a number of letters, 
and in the afternoon had the mortification to find that two thirds 
of the Sergts. in the Regt. had conspired together, and ript the 
bindings off their hats, contrary to orders. I issued an order for 
them to put them on by next morning, by guard mounting, or 
they should be reduced to the ranks without the formality of a 
Court Martial, and tried for a wilful disobedience of orders. 

25th July, 1779. This morning by eight o'clock the Sergts 
had all their bindings on. In the afternoon yesterday I reed a 
mutinious paper from one of the soldiers, wrote by one Hazzard 
and brought by one Twitchel, and last evening two deserters, 
John Deruce and Robert Albro, both made their escape from the 
Qr Guard. Deruce was in irons, under sentence of death. He is 
supposed to have been taken out of his irons by one Fowler, who 
was confined with him. I set out to see the Genl. at Providence, 
on business, this afternoon half past 4 o'clock. Went to my own 
house, tarried the night. 

Angell returned to camp the following day, and found all 
quiet. On the 28th he was obliged to go to Warren, and proceeded 
by boat. By reason of delay and stress of weather he was unable 
to set out for home until the 30th, and then was driven on to the 
Barrington shore, where he met with Captain Tew of his regiment. 
The following day. Tew and the Colonel returned to Warren, to 
make another attempt to reach camp. There they 

Reed the disagreeable news of my Regt mutinying, on which 
I set off to try to reach the western shore, though the wind was 
ahead. We beat out of Warren river, stood over to Warwick 
Neck, and after trying to beat down to Barber's Heights, was 
obliged to put away for Greenwich harbor. There I left my boat 
and men, got a horse, and set off for camp. Arrived there by eight 
o'clock, found all in peace. On my way met Genl. Stark and a 
number of other gentlemen, who had been down to the Regt. at 
the request of Gen. Gates, and ordered the Regt to parade and 
march by the column. They all received the genl pardon ex- 
cept George Millamen, who was ordered to be sent prisoner in 
irons to Providence, and was immediately sent off. 



Military Life H7 

The Diary makes no further reference to the subject, except 
that on the 4th and 5th August, mention is made of Major Thayer, 
Captain Coggeshall Olney, Ensign Wheaton, and other witnesses 
being called for at the Court Martial to try Millamen. 

Millamen, presumably the ringleader in the mutiny, was 
duly tried by Court Martial.' General Gates approved the 
death sentence. On the 20th, on the prisoner's humble petition, 
he was respited for one week from the following Monday, and on 
the 27th September he was again respited until the nth October, 
and again until the 25th. It is evident that the authorities were 
reluctant to enforce the penalty, as he was still a prisoner in 
January.^ 

In the mean time, information was received that there was to 
be an attack by Tories, on the night of the 4th August. This 
report was based on news brought by the Province Galley, which 

'Camp Barbers Heights, 4th August. 1779 
9 oClock at Night 
Dear Col 

Have this moment received your Express, desiring me to send a number of 
non-commission 'd Officers & Soldiers of my Regmt to Providence as Evidences 
for Milliman, which will be forwarded with all possible speed, & deliver you 
this, but cannot conceive that they ought to be admitted as Evidences, being 
parties equally concem'd in their dam-ble Conduct^ — for my own part, I 
have no reason to think, but that some of them would be bad eno to swear 
that they were ye investigators of ye Mutiny, in order to serene Milliman 
from suffering, as they have received their pardon & have no punishment to 
fear 
Col? Peck I am with sentiments of esteem. 

Your humble Servt 
I. Angell, Col. 

Head Quarters Providence 11 Augst 1779 

George Milliman soldier in the 2^ Rhode Island Regt try'd at a late 
Gen' Court Martial whereof Colo Jackson was President for Mutiny is found 
guilty of the same & sentenced to suffer death — the Gen' approves the sentence 
of the Court Martial & will order the same to be executed on Monday sennight. 
The Adjt Geni will acquaint the prisoner with the sentence of the Court 
that he may prepare for Death. 

Head Quarters 29th Aug. 1779 

George Milliman soldier in Colo Angell's Regiment tried at a late General 
court martial & sentenced to suffer death, is fiirther respited from Execution 
untill monday the 13 th September. 

^He died 12th August, 1832. (U. S. Pension Records.) The name is not 
found in Arnold's Vital Records for either Warwick County or the town of 
Providence. 



148 Israel Angell 

had taken three fishermen off Block Island, from whom it was 
learned that the "Tory fleet ^ intended to come off a plundering 
on Point Judith this night or to-morrow night." 

Colonel Angell found it more difficult to maintain discipline 
in his regiment while they were encamped in Rhode Island, near 
their homes, and occupied with nothing but guard duty and the 
monotony of drill, than when forming part of the army at a dis- 
tance. Nor were the men remarkable for their obedience to 
orders. Much dissatisfaction prevailed, encouraged by busy- 
bodies, and by the dilatoriness of the State in the matter of pay 
and supplies. Question arose as to the period of enlistment. 
This same complaint concerning enlistment came up in other 
Continental regiments, especially the following year. On the 
1 2th September, 1779, Colonel Angell's Orderly Book contains the 
following : 

Camp Barber's Hill. The Colonel has been informed that 
some soldiers in the regiment who not having the good of the 
service in view are frequently complaining in a very unwarrant- 
able manner about their enlistment, and even threatening to 
leave or desert the service after the expiration of three years, 
although their enlistments are during the War. The Colonel is 
surprised to find that any soldier presumes to use such designing 
and mutinous language, and he now informs them, once for all, 
that should any non-commissioned officer or soldier in future, be 
found guilty on parade or elsewhere of threatening, grumbling, or 
complaining in such unwarrantable manner with respect for the 
term for which he enlisted, he may be assured that he will imme- 
diately be confined and tried for a breach of orders, and likewise 
for endeavoring to cause and excite mutiny among the well 
affected troops in the regiment, and must expect to suffer accord- 
ingly. All those who are the least dissatisfied or in doubt about 
the term for which he enlisted are assured there has been 
a fair and impartial examination of all the enlistments that are 
collected, and that no non-commissioned officer or soldier is re- 
turned for any other term of service than what is expressly 
mentioned in his enlistment. Yet should any individual still 
remain in doubt respecting his enlistment after the publication 
of this order, he is desired to apply to the Colonel, who will at 

' Stanton Hazzard, called the Tory pirate, sailed from Newport, and 
committed more or less minor damage. He was taken, and carried into New 
London, as noted by Colonel Angell under date of 9th August. His captor 
was Silas Talbot, already mentioned in this sketch. 



Military Life i49 

once remove his doubts by producing his enlistment, and thereby 
end the unwarrantable complaints which are too frequent in the 
regiment. Some few enlistments are not yet collected, and when 
they are the same candid examination will be made as before. 

This order to be read four evenings, successively, that the men 
may be fully acquainted therewith. After which no excuse what- 
ever will be admitted for a breach of this order. 

An order dated i6th September, discloses another cause of 
trouble : 

Mrs. Grant's conduct (previous to her being ordered away 
from Newtown) was attended by such particular marks of inso- 
lence and disrespect toward the Colonel, as well as the most 
dangerous consequences to the good order and obedience of the 
Guard stationed at New Town that necessity reduced him to 
remove her such a distance as to put it out of her power to infuse 
principles of disobedience in the minds of the well affected soldiers, 
but the Lieut. Colonel is sorry to be informed that she is again 
returned to the place from whence she was lately removed, and 
she may now be assured that if she does not set out to-morrow 
morning by ii or 12 for Providence, or some other place equally 
distant from this post, he will be reduced to the necessity of taking 
such steps as will effect her removal ; which perhaps may not be 
quite so pleasing to her as it will to go by the time here limited. 

This order was issued by Colonel Olney during the temporary 
absence of Colonel Angell. 

The routine of the camp is shown by an order of 17th 
September : 

The troops are to parade at the first dawn of the day till 
further orders. The taptoo be beat at eight o'clock, after which 
the officer of the day and officer of the Guard in camp, will see 
that the troops are all still in their tents, and all lights to be put 
out in camp at nine o'clock. The countersign to be given out in 
camp immediately after a taptoo beating and the outguards as 
soon as daylight is gone, and after ten o'clock no person is to be 
admitted to pass with or without the countersign without the 
encampment, except the officers of the day and guards. 

Whipping as a punishment for various offenses, absent with- 
out leave, leaving one's post without orders, thieving, etc., was 
inflicted at roll call. The ' ' cat ' ' was used. Men receiving punish- 



I50 Israel Angell 

ment had to march slowly down between two lines, while each 
man in line struck him until the required number of lashes were 
received. Or sometimes he was whipped by men detailed to the 
duty, usually the drummers and fifers. This degrading punish- 
ment was so frequently administered that it probably lost a part 
of its significance, and the number of lashes given was large, cor- 
responding to the lightness with which the men laid on their 
strokes. In the British army, in serious cases, an officer marched 
slowly in front of the offender, with the naked point of his sword 
projecting backward under his arm, and another behind with his 
sword point in position. Behind each rank of the men, keeping 
pace with the culprit, marched other officers who would strike, 
even hard enough to knock down, such men who failed to deliver 
their blows with reasonable force. Death often resulted from 
heavy sentences. The discipline in the American army was not 
so severe, but was based on that in the British establishment. 

General Steuben visited Rhode Island in September, on official 
duties. The Orderly Book of Captain Jeremiah Putnam, under 
date of September 4, 1779, recites the General Orders of that 
day, giving the itinerary of "Major General Steuben, Inspector 
General of the Armies of the United States." He was to review 
Sherburne's and Webb's regiments on the 5th, and would "then 
proceed by water to Greenwich, and on Monday morning at 10 
o'clock will review Col. Greene's Regiment and Col. Angell's 
at Hunt's Tavern on the road between Greenwich and New- 
town, at which place the regiments will be paraded." 

The Diary is missing for the month of September, and a hiatus 
also occurs in the Orderly Book from nth July to 6th Septem- 
ber, but the records of the War Department show that on the 
6th the Inspector General reported on Angell's regiment, "This 
regiment is one of the new establishment, the companies nearly 
equal, and in general in good order, and can form a battalion of 
the line." 

The following letters' belong to this period: 

' Taken from the Letter Book of Colonel Angell, as are all his letters not 
otherwise credited. The Letter Book commences with a fragment of Letter 
No. 3, written from Valley Forge, February, 1778, and continues to 1783. 
It is in possession of Mr. H. L Angell, and a photostat copy in possession of 
Mrs. F. H. Lovell. 



Military Life 151 

Camp Barbers Heights nth Sept. 1779 
Dear General 

One of ye Inhabitants of this Neighbourhood, had a Mare shot 
by one of my Centinels on ye night of ye 8rh Instant — the Gentle- 
man apply'd to me ye day following, to know how he should get 
pay for his Mare, as he suppos'd her to be shot by accident, & not 
by design. It was a matter I was somewhat at a Loss to know 
how to proceed in, but by y? inclosed ye Gen} will see in what 
manner I have proceeded, and now submit ye matter to ye Gen- 
erals better Judgment, begging ye Gen} to send me a Line, how 
and who shall pay this Gentleman for his Beast. 

Am Dear Gen' yf most Obed* 
Maj'" Geni Gates humble Serv* 

I. Angell 

Camp Barbers Heights nth Sept. 1779 
Respected Genf 

There being two Vacancies for two Lieuts in my Regm*, occa- 
sioned by ye resignation of Lieu* Benedict Tew, and Lieu* Thomas 
Waterman, beg ye General would be pleas'd to appoint Ensign 
Jn? Hubbart to fill y? Vacancy of Lieu* Tew, which took place 
ye io*h Qf May 1779 — and Ensign Joseph Wheaton to fill yf 
Vacancy of L* Waterman which happened ye 30th of August 1779. 

I am Sr with Esteem 
Maj^ Geni Gates Your most obedient, & 

very humble Serv* 

I. Angell, Col. 

Camp Barbers Heights 17th Sept^ 1779 
Gentlemen 

There being two Vacancies, for two Lieutenants in my Regi- 
ment occasioned by y? resignation of Lieu* Benedict Tew, and 
Lieu* Thomas Waterman, beg your Honours would be pleas'd to 
appoint Ensign John Hubbart^ to fill ye Vacancy of Lieu* Tew, 
which took place ye loth of May 1779. — And Ensign Joseph 
Wheaton to fill ye Vacancy of Lieu* Waterman which happen'd 
ye 30th of August 1779. Have apply'd to ye Gen^ to have ye 
aforesaid Vacancies fill'd. who inform'd me, that their appoint- 
ments must be by ye Honourable Gen' Assembly. 

Am, Gentlemen Your Honours 
Honourable Gen^ Obedient & very humble 

Assembly Rhode Island Serv* 

State I. Angell, Col. 

' Both Hubbart and Waterman gave cause for letters from Angell to 
Washington, April, 1780. 



152 Israel Angell 

The duties of the commanding officer at the Post at Barber's 
Heights called for vigilance in detecting attempts by small coast- 
ing vessels to pass out the Bay without proper permits. On occa- 
sion this power required good judgment and diplomacy, as the 
orders of the Board of War and the permits granted sometimes 
conflicted. 

Camp Barbers Heights y^ Octf 1779 
Sr 

In obedience to a Resolve of ye honourable Council of War 
pass'd ye 30th Ult. prohibiting ye Exportation of any kind of 
Provisions, or W. I. Goods from this State to y? State of Connecti- 
cutt from & after ye 2^^^ Day of this instant October, under any 
pretence whatever — I have detained two small Sloops Com- 
manded by Mess'? Elliot & for Wood now in ye Harbour 

of Updykes New-Town, bound to Stonington in ye State of 
Connecticutt, with a quantity of Rum, Sugar & Wine on Board 
said Vessels, as your Excellency will see by their Papers — The 
Gentlemen had proper Clearances & passes, yet as they were 
given previous to y? Act's taking place, & y? Goods still in y? 
State, thot it my duty, according to y? Tenor of 2^ Act, to detain 
them untill they had gotten a permit to pass from ye same Author- 
ity that pass'd ye non-Exportation Act^ 

I am with Esteem your Excellency's 
His Excellency most obedient & very humble Serv* 

Governor Greene — I. Angell, Col. 

But soon the long inactivity, so conducive to infractions of 
orders and to poor discipline, approached its end. In early October 
while plans were being made to construct barracks for the regi- 
ment, news came that a fleet of 57 sail, of which 34 were ships, 
had arrived at Newport, and on the 13th Colonel Angell sent 
out a patrol boat to reconnoitre along the coast of Conanicut 
Island. The party landed and nearly succeeded in taking off 
some horses, but being discovered were obliged to flee, after 
which the scouting party continued on their mission, and were 
attacked by a party of light horsemen which followed along the 
shore. On the 14th, orders were received to notify General Gates 
of any movement of the enemy, and that the regiment was under 
marching orders, all detachments to be called in. ' Close watch 

■ See Diary under date of 3d October, 1779. The Governor permitted the 
sloops to pass. The following day another sloop was permitted to pass on 
showing an order from the Board of War at Boston to purchase cheese for 
the navy. 



Military Life 153 

was now kept on the enemy, and on the 20th a scouting party 
sent over to Conanicut by Colonel Angell brought off an inhabi- 
tant of the island, who gave information that the enemy were 
preparing to evacuate, had gotten all their baggage and heavy 
guns on board ship, and had destroyed the platforms of their 
North Battery the day before. The following day General 
Stark came into the camp, and information was received that 
before the regiment marched westward, to join the "Grand 
Army," it would be sent over to Rhode Island. 

The British fleet finally got away on the 25th, until then de- 
tained by adverse winds, and on the next day Colonel Angell 's 
regiment occupied Newport.' The crossing was made with 
difficulty, on account of heavy seas, two of the boats being 
wrecked. The Colonel sailed around to Newport Harbor, enter- 
ing the harbor at half after eight in the morning. The troops 
landed on Conanicut, marched across to the Ferry, and were 
brought over in boats procured by Colonel Angell. On the next 
two days Colonel Angell inspected the British works, which he 
notes as "Some of the Beautifullest works that I ever saw in my 
life." The regiment remained at Newport, and in the meantime 
Colonel Greene's regiment moved to Goat Island. Orders were 
received, 5th November, for all the Continental regiments to 
move west. Colonel Angell rode by way of Providence, crossing 
Bristol Ferry, while the regiment proceeded by boat to the west 
shore, and on the 8th, being a mile and half west of Greenwich, 
were rejoined by their Colonel. Livingston's and Webb's regi- 
ments marched on the loth November, and Jackson's from 
Providence, the day before. Angell's, Greene's, and Sherburne's 
marched on the nth. 

Colonel Angell noted in his Diary his arrival in Danbury under 
date of 25th November, "where I found the regiment. Colonel 
Olney and Major Thayer were quartered in a grand house occu- 
pied by the widow Wollsey of Long Island." Orders had origi- 
nally been issued for the brigade to march for their cantonment 

' When the enemy marched out from Newport "all the houses were 
closed, by General Prescott's order; not a man or woman was allowed to look 
out of the windows or to be on the street; the patrols were directed to enforce 
this, under penalty of firing at those whose curiosity might tempt them." 
Diary of Fichtelberger, quoted by v. Eelking. 



154 Israel Angell 

near Morristown, on the 29th, but bad weather, followed by word 
that the bridge over the Croton River had broken down, delayed 
the departure until the 5th December. Colonel Angell, after in- 
specting his regiment, had gone directly to West Point, and there 
received orders for the commanding officer of the brigade, if there 
was not an English fleet in the Sound, to march at once to join 
the army in the Jerseys. 

The Orderly Book shows that General Stark was at Pompton 
on the first of December, having preceded his brigade. The heavy 
snows of the first few days in December are noted by Colonel 
Angell in his Diary, and it is remarkable that on the fifth, the day 
the march was resumed, in spite of the snowfall that day, and the 
"exceeding cold," the regiment marched eighteen or twenty 
miles. The route was by way of Crompond, Kings Ferry, Sufferns, 
Pompton, to Morristown. The last day's march, through mud, 
with water at times to the men's knees, was sixteen miles. Other 
days the march was twenty and twenty-two miles, and the roads 
bad and hilly. 

On arrival at Morristown, the brigade was encamped about 
three miles from the town, which during the Revolution had a 
population of between three and four hundred. Unfortunately 
Colonel Angell's diary for the months following his arrival at 
Morristown, is lost. There is a hiatus from 13th December, 1779, 
to loth August, 1780, a period of great interest. The Orderly 
Books cover a portion of this period, but from the 12th February 
to the 1st May, and after the 6th June, those also fail us. In 
February, Congress ordered that all Continental battalions should 
be furnished with State flags, and that the field should be of the 
color of the facings prescribed for the uniforms. The facing of 
the regiments from New England was white, the regulation uni- 
form itself being blue. ' Thus each of the standards of the New 

' Before leaving Rhode Island, orders had been received to clothe the 
Rhode Island Continental regiments in blue and white, and Jackson's, Smith's, 
and Henley's in blue and buff. In December, 1779, the General Assembly 
of Rhode Island voted that every commissioned officer in the Continental 
battalions commanded by Colonel Christopher Greene and Colonel Israel 
Angell be supplied with clothing for the year 1780, as follows: one hat, coat, 
waistcoat, pair breeches, pair boots, two pair of shoes, three pair of stockings, 
four shirts, and two pocket handkerchiefs. 



Military Life i55 

England regiments showed a white field/ upon which appeared 
the coat of arms of the State. In Angell's Orderly Books for the 
spring of 1780 there is frequent mention of the standards or colors 
of the manoeuvering battalion to be supplied by the Pennsylvania 
division or by Clinton's brigade, and it may be that as yet Rhode 
Island and many of the other regiments did not possess a stand 
of colors. 

The following letter written by Colonel Angell, directly to the 
Commander-in-Chief, shows what minor matters the latter 
allowed to be brought to his notice, and how accessible he was to 
his regimental commanders : 

Morristown 8th April 1780 
Dear Gen! 

Am sorry to have occasion to trouble your Excellency upon so 
disagreeable an Affair. Lieu* John Hubbart of my Regim^ had a 
Furlough granted him ye 2^^ of Jan^. last, for 80 Days, which 
expir'd ye 21^* Day of March past — The y^ instant ye Regim* was 
mustered & inspected — Lieu* Hubbart had not returned at this 
Time; but Cap* Tew who had been at Morris-Town that morning 
returned while ye Regim* was on ye Parade & informed me that 
Lieu* Hubbart had arrived in Town ye Evening before ; & would 
be in Camp before ye Regim*.was dismiss'd — upon which I alter'd 
ye Muster-Rolls & return'd him present. Lieu* Hubbart not 
returning this Day, the 4111 1 sent a Serg* to him with a Billet in ye 
following words, or words to ye same purport; Viz. — Sr, I am sur- 
prized at your absence from ye Regim*. You must be sensible 
that you have already overstaid your Furlough a number of Days ; 
Yesterday ye Regim* was muster'd & inspected; & upon Capt. 
Tew's informing me that you was in Morristown, have return'd 
you present — Upon receipt of this, shall expect you will imme- 
diately join y? Regim*; otherwise I shall be under ye disagreeable 
necessity of returning you absent without leave. The Serj* re- 
turned & bro't me ye inclos'd Billet from Lieu* Hubbart here ye 
matter rested this Day. The 5th ye Officers were call'd upon to 
bring in their Rolls once more, & Return him Absent without 
leave — Between ye hours of 11 & 12 A. M. Lieu* Hubbart arriv'd 
in Camp, and as he had conducted, tho't it my duty to order him 

'• ' In 1882 Rhode Island changed the white field of her flag to blue, and 
thus it remained until 1897, when it was changed back to white. It is said 
that the State troop flag in 1780 showed a white field, charged with the State 
arms, and a blue canton showing 13 stars, this latter borrowed from the 
national ensign. Presumably each regiment also carried the national colors, 
or was supposed to. 



156 Israel Angell 

in Arrest, which was immediately done. But from Lieu* Hub- 
bart's former Conduct & his being sensible of his Error now, am 
indue' d to believe that ye fault he has now committed, arose from 
inadvertance, & not from a wilfull Breach of Orders. Therefore, 
having given a Narrative of ye Affair, & admitted him Bearer of 
ye Same, if it be your Excellency's Pleasure to overlook ye Ar- 
rest — But submit it wholly to your better Judgement. 

I am Your Excellency's Obedient 
His Excellency, and very humble Serv* 

Gen' Washington I. Angell 

Captain Thomas Hughes, ' in whose behalf the following cer- 
tificate was prepared, had been wounded at the battle of Long 
Island, by a musket ball through the hips, and was disabled until 
November, 1777. Whatever the cause, the trouble was probably 
adjusted between the parties concerned: 

Quarters near Morristown, 20th April 1780. 

WHEREAS, Adjutant Thos. Waterman of my Regiment (as I 
have been informed) has impeached y? Character of Capt. 
Thomas Hughes, Pay-master of s^ Regiment. In justice to my 
self and Capt. Hughes, Do, hereby declare and make known to all 
whom it may concern. That I have been intimately acquainted 
with Capt. Hughes since ye Army lay before Boston; great part 
of which Time he has served in y? Regiment I have had ye honour 
to Command, and in every respect to my knowledge, has behav'd 
as an honest worthy Gentlemen and a good officer; who has 
fought bled and suffered in his Countries Cause — and now after 
a series of sufferings, perhaps unparrallel'd in History, to have his 
Character impeach'd thro' malignity, must be so cruel as to wreck 
y? Breast of every compassionate being. The weight of an accu- 
sation from abandon'd Robbers, I shall leave to y? impartial 
World to Judge of. 

Israel Angell, Col. 
Whom it may concern. 

Henry Sherburne, formerly of the Army of Observation, had 
been commissioned as colonel, and given one of the additional 
battalions raised by order of Congress, December, 1776, and had 
participated in the Rhode Island campaign. His regiment was 
part of Stark's brigade. Its enlisted personnel was from various 
states, all of the New England States being represented. On the 
2d May, the men in his regiment were transferred to the line 



\ ... < '^/z /fc^//t££ V^ ^r7Y t/e/i^ a^^< 'Oa-Zi^^uaAtd ^ C2C^^ /L^re/y 

,, ■ ^ ^y(/'r/^£^£^^^^fe/^,S£r^' 



Page from Letter-book of Colonel Angell 



Military Life i57 

regiments from those States in which they claimed residence, the 
men from Rhode Island being ordered to report to Colonel Angell. 
On the 4th May a return for the regiment showed present 216 
men and officers. The payrolls of Angell's regiment are extant 
for the months of January to May inclusive. 

The regiment was composed of nine companies, including 
a company of light infantry. The field and stafE consisted 
of Colonel, Israel Angell; Lieutenant Colonel, Jeremiah Olney; 
Major, Simeon Thayer; Paymaster, Captain Thomas Hughes; 
Quartermaster, Thomas Sayles; Adjutant, Thomas Water- 
man; Surgeon, Samuel Tenney; and Sturgeon's Mate, Elias 
Cornelius. 

The depreciation in the currency is illustrated in a startling 
manner. Colonel Angell's pay for the month was $75, and he 
was allowed $500 a month for subsistence. His entire pay had 
the purchasing value of about $15. in hard money. 

The changes being made in the organization of the army, led 
Colonel Angell to address the following letter to General Poor: 

Quarters Morris-Town May i^* 1780 
Sr 

The occasion of my troubling you with a line at this time is 
relative to the present Situation of my Regiment. We are the 
onely one from the State of Rhode Island annexed to the Sixteen 
additional Regiments, which to me is not an Agreable Circum- 
stance — and as the Brigade to which we now Stand in Relation 
is so much reduced and must Soon be more So, by reason of the 
multiplicity of discharges given the three years men, tis more 
than probable this will occation its being Brigaded a new — let 
this be as it may. I Should think my Self happy to have my 
Regiment join'd to your Brigade, if the Affair Could Consistantly 
be effected — and as the Committee of Congress is now arrived 
here to arrange or new moddle the Army (as I imagine) a most 
favourable opportunity presents for obtaining my Desire in this 
Respect. If, Sr, it would be agreable to you to have my Troops 
(in number nearly 300 for the war) joined to those now under your 
Command, I Should be greatly gratified, and Should Esteem it 
as a Special favour if you would trouble your Self so much as 
Seasonably to write to the Committee on the Subject. 

Am S*" with all due respect. 
Your Obedient, Humble Servant 
Bri: Gen} Poor Israel Angell, Col. 

2"^ Rhode Island Reg* 



158 Israel Angell 

The disbandment of Sherburne's regiment led several of the 
former officers, who for a time served in various capacities, to 
seek assignment to regiments of the establishment. Their oppor- 
tunities would have been severely curtailed, had the General 
Assembly of the State been permitted to appoint others to fill 
any existing vacancies. Correspondence ensued between Colonels 
Greene and Angell, concerning this matter, who took the ques- 
tion up with Washington. 

Camp, 2y^ July 1780 
D^Sir 

Yours of the 15*!^ Instant Came Safe to hand, and agreeable 
to Col. Greene's request apply'd imeadetly to his Excellency on 
the Subject of the new appointments of Officers, and by the In- 
closed you will See how far it meets his Approbation. 

And I can further Assuer you that the appointment of officers 
into the line of the army beyond the rank of Ensigns is disap- 
proved of here in the highest manner by all ranks of officers, and 
Cannot think but when the Gentlemen who may have had those 
appointments, Comes to know what Confusion it will occation, 
(which of course will render their Situation in Service Disagreable) 
Have the Good of their Country So much at heart as to desist 
from fishing in such troubled waters. 

There is Lieutenant Sherburne and Ensign Sherman both of 
Col. Sherburne's Reg^ late Reduced, might come into your Regi- 
ment without injuring the rank of any officer, as it would be doing 
justice to the young men, and a Service to their Country in my 
Opinion. Could wish it might be agreable to you. L* Sherburne 
is here with us, and desires to know if it was agreable to you for 
him to come into your Reg* wheather you would have him Come 
on to join you, or wait till you join the Army. Ensign Sherman 
is a prisoner in New York, but it is expected will Soon be Ex- 
changed. 

We have been Some time past pleas'd with the Expectation of 
your Regiment joining us, but our hopes were blasted in this 
respect on hearing that they had returned to the State, if you 
Should have orders to join the Army again, would advise you to 
take some rout whereby you might Shun that inchanted Ground, 
at or near Hartford which you have twice attempted to get over. 
An Unlucky affair happen'd here the 25^^ Instant, the Pennsyl- 
vania line marched down to Bergin in order to bring off the Stock 
there on the neck, had Collected 290 head of Cattle, in Comming 
off made an Attack upon a block hous that the Enemy had there 
■ — but having no Mettle heaver than Six grounders. Could make 
but Little impression on their works, (though within Sixty rods) 



stark 




Plan of battle-ground at Springfield, N.J. 



Military Life 167 

them till they entered Elizabeth-Town, which place they reached 
about sun-set. Stark's brigade was immediately put in rnotion, 
on the first appearance of a retreat; which was so precipitate 
that they were not able to overtake them. 

The enemy continued at Elizabeth-Town Point until 12 
o'clock at night, and then began to cross their troops to Staten- 
Island; by 6 this morning they had totally evacuated the Point, 
and removed their bridge. Major Lee fell in with their rear 
guard, but they were so covered by their works, that little or no 
injury could be done them. He made some Refugees prisoners, 
and took some Tories, which they abandoned to expedite their 
retreat. 

I have the pleasure to inform your Excellency, that the troops 
who were engaged behaved with great coolness and intrepidity, 
and the whole of them discovered an impatience to be brought 
into action. The good order and discipline which they exhibited 
in all their movements do them the highest honor. The artillery 
under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Forest was well 
served. I have only to regret the loss of Captain-Lieutenant 
Thompson, who fell at the side of his piece by a cannon ball. 

It is impossible to fix with certainty the enemy's loss, but as 
there was much close firing, and our troops advantageously 
posted, they must have suffered very considerably. 

I herewith inclose your Excellency a return of our killed, 
wounded, and missing, which I am happy to find is much less 
than I had reason to expect, from the heavy fire they sustained. 

I am at a loss to determine what was the object of the 
enemy's expedition : If it was to injure the troops under my com- 
mand, or to penetrate further into the country, they were 
frustrated. If the destruction of this place, it was a disgraceful 
one. I lament that our force was too small to save the town 
from ruin. I wish every American could have been a spectator; 
they would have felt for the sufferers, and joined to revenge 
the injury. 

I cannot close this letter without acknowledging the particular 
services of Lieutenant-Colonel Barber, who acted as Deputy 
Adjutant-General, and distinguished himself by his activity in. 
assisting to make the necessary dispositions. 

I have the honor to be, &c. 

N. GREENE, Major-General. 

There were a number of prisoners made, but as they went on 
to Morris, I had no return of them. 

His Excellency General Washington. 

Stephen Olney, who took part in the engagement, until obliged 
to retire, having been wounded in the arm, mentions his partici- 



i68 Israel Angell 

pation in the battle very briefly. He asserted, alluding only to 
the post the regiment held in Springfield, that the Rhode Is- 
landers were the only troops engaged, and that the regiment 
numbered only i6o rank and file, of whom 40 were killed and 
wounded. 

"The gallant behaviour of Colonel Angell's regiment on the 
23d instant at Springfield" is referred to by Washington in the 
following letter' to Governor Greene: 

Headquarters, Rampaugh, 29th June, 1780 

Sir: — I was yesterday honored with Your Excellency's favor of 
the 25th, enclosing a recommendation of the council of war, to 
General Heath, to order Colonel Greene's regiment to march im- 
mediately to join the army leaving as many officers as possible 
to bring forward the drafts directed to be raised for completing 
the battalions of the state. Colonel Greene's regiment being too 
small to afi^ord any material reinforcement, and being usefully 
employed where it is at present, I have thought it most advisable 
for it to remain until the greater part of the drafts are collected; 
when I have desired General Heath to put them in motion, at 
the same time detaining a few officers to collect and bring up the 
remaining levies. Upon their joining the army, I shall dispose 
of them in such manner as will make the regiments equal in point 
of numbers. 

The gallant behaviour of Colonel Angell's regiment on the 
23d inst. , at Springfield, reflects the highest honor upon the officers 
and men. They disputed an important pass with so obstinate a 
bravery that they lost upwards of forty in killed, wounded and 
missing, before they gave up their ground to a vast superiority 
of force. 

The ready and ample manner in which your state has com- 
plied with the requisitions of the committee of co-operation, both 
as to men and supplies, entitles her to the thanks of the public, 
and affords the highest satisfaction to, sir. 

Your Excellency's most obedient servant. 
To Governor Greene. GEO. WASHINGTON 

On receiving this letter the Governor communicated it to the 
General Assembly, who on the 7th July passed the following 
Resolve, expressing the highest satisfaction to be informed of 
the gallant behaviour of Colonel Angell's regiment. 

' This letter as well as the Resolve given in the text, is from Records of 
Rhode Island, 9:147, 151. 




'a 

'C 



Military Life 169 

The General Assembly of Rhode Island to Colonel Israel 
Angell, Officers and Men, Belonging to the Second Rhode 
Island Regiment : 

State of Rhode Island, &c. 

In General Assembly. 

Providence, July 7th, 1780. 

Gentlemen : — It gives the General Assembly the highest sat- 
isfaction to be informed, in a letter from His Excellency General 
Washington, that "The gallant behaviour of Col. Angell's 
regiment on the 23d of June, at Springfield, reflects the highest 
honor on the officers and men ; that they disputed an important 
pass with so obstinate a bravery, that they lost upwards of forty 
in killed, wounded, and missing, before they gave up the ground 
to a vast superiority of force." 

This honorable testimony of the good services of a regiment, 
which has ever done honor to our state, by their bravery on all 
occasions in the hour of danger, adds to the character they have 
always sustained in the American army, and the sufferings they 
have cheerfully undergone in the defence of the rights of their 
country, excite the warmest gratitude of the General Assembly, 
who are always disposed to reward merit so distinguished. We 
condole with those who suffer from the wounds they have 
received. But as they are the badges of bravery, it might be 
some consolation to the sufferers that they thereby have a most 
indisputable claim to the esteem and respect of their country. 

We cannot omit this opportunity of returning our most sin- 
cere thanks to the officers and soldiers in general, belonging to 
the regiment, for that bravery, patriotism, and perseverance, and 
those military virtues manifested on all occasions so similar to 
those exhibited by the famous legions of ancient Rome, in the 
shining periods of the history of that republic; and it gives us 
the most sensible pleasure to reflect that the historic page of 
America will not pass over in silence the services of a regiment 
of ours so meritorious. 

It gives us great anxiety that, from the unhappy situation of 
our currency for several years, past, the pay of the regiment has 
fallen so far short of their services. When we have taken meas- 
ures for making payment, which we thought would be adequate 
the depreciation of the money has defeated our intention. The 
great exertions we have been obliged to make on account of the 
enemy having had possession of Rhode Island, have prevented 
our doing for the regiment what we wished. And from causes 
which we could not prevent, it has so happened that a large 
balance has now become due to the regiment on account of the 
depreciation. We feel the obligation, and are anxious to dis- 
charge it; but the calls of the present campaign are great and 



170 Israel Angell 

urgent. We have therefore now been able only to send you the 
sum of £21,792, as a small part of the balance. But the regiment 
may be assured that as the General Assembly as well as the 
people at large, have the highest sense of their merit, and are 
anxious to make them full and ample compensation. That at 
the next session of the General Assembly, which will be on the 
third Monday of July instant, the most certain and effectual 
measures will be taken for paying a very considerable part of 
the remaining balance. 

We have received Col. Angell's letter of the 30th ult., and 
have ordered the shirts and overalls which he wrote for to be 
forwarded, as soon as possible to the regiment, and shall make 
every exertion in our power that the pay, clothing, and supplies 
from the state shall in future be made in the most punctual 
manner. We are, gentlemen, with esteem and gratitude. 
Your most obedient, humble servants. 
Signed at the request, and in behalf of the 
General Assembly, 

WILLIAM GREENE. 

To Col. Angell and the other officers and men of the Second 
Rhode Island Battalion, in the army of the United States. 

The destruction of Springfield in this abortive attempt to 
penetrate the passes of the Short Hills, and the earlier burning 
of the village at Connecticut Farms, led to the execration of 
the British, and it is good to learn from the testimony of a young 
English officer, George Mathew, present on the occasion, that 
there were strict orders against burning the houses, but that 
the men got out of hand, and could not be controlled by their 
officers. ' It is well to know both sides, for there is always two 
sides to any story. 

The excesses of the enemy are always a fruitful theme for 
orators, for writers upon occasion of the recurring anniversary 
dates, and of course for either party engaged, at the time. It 
is not to be doubted that in the many punitive expeditions 
undertaken by the British, as well as upon the raids, and during 
their retreat from Philadelphia across New Jersey, unwarrant- 

^ Historical Magazine, i: 102. Lieutenant Mathews was aide-de-camp to 
his uncle, General Mathews. His account differs little from that given in 
the text, except the burning of Connecticut Farms is mentioned as taking 
place on the retreat of the morning of 7th Jtme. He gave the British loss as 
fully five himdred, and the pvupose that of bringing on a general engagement. 



Military Life 171 

able damage and personal injuries were inflicted. Washington 
in his letters, and Greene in his, refer to the looting of friends 
committed by some of our own soldiery. The Orderly Books 
abound with mention of court martials for stealing, abuse of 
individuals, and like misdemeanors. After the battle of Spring- 
field, while Greene was in command in New Jersey, he was 
obliged to ask permission from Washington to execute men of the 
Pennsylvania brigade who had been taken red-handed in rob- 
bery. Colonel Angell in his diary under date of 26th August, 
1780, alludes to this matter, "So we rode out to meet them, 
which we did in Bergen, seven miles from their camp, they had 
just hanged a man for plundering the inhabitants. He was a 
Pensylvanian, one of Col. Humpton's Reg*. He was hanged by 
orders of the Commanding Officer without a trial." This was 
on his visit to Major Thayer at the Light Infantry camp, where 
a company of his regiment v/as stationed. Active warfare allows 
scope for the unregenerate to exercise all the miserable traits of 
his character. 

In spite of the efforts to keep the two Continental battalions 
recruited to full strength there was still lacking in July, 1780, of 
the required quota, 163 men. In June an attempt had been made 
by the State authorities to obtain Washington's permission to 
forward the men in Greene's regiment, the "black regiment" so 
called, to be incorporated with Angell's, expecting in that way to 
encourage enlistment in Greene's regiment, which still remained 
in Rhode Island. This proposition Washington negatived. Nor 
did he want a distinctively "black corps" maintained in the 
main army. He said in a letter to General Heath, of date of 
29th June: 

It would make a very great inequality in the strength of the two 
regiments, more especially as Col? Angell's sustained the loss of 
forty killed, wounded and missing by their gallant behaviour on 
the 23d Inst, at Springfield. Instead, therefor of the mode 
proposed by the Assembly, I think it will be best to march 
Col? Greene's Reg* and the Levies when collected, to the Army, 
and upon their arrival here, so arrange and model them, as to 
level the Regiments. The objection to joining Greene's Regiment 
may be removed by dividing the Blacks in such a manner, be- 
tween the two as to abolish the name and appearance of a Black 
Corps. Under these circumstances I would not have Col? 



172 Israel Angell 

Greene's Regiment move this way until the greater part of the 
levies have come in ; they may then march together. . . . they 
may in the meantime be employed in training and cutting 
fascines. 

General Greene wrote to President Joseph Reed of Pennsyl- 
vania on 29th June, from Ramapaugh (Ramapo), which had 
become temporarily his headquarters after Knyphausen had been 
driven from New Jersey, relative to supplies from that state, 
' ' We are now in the greatest distress imaginable. The army with- 
out tents, and the officers without baggage for want of teams. 
When the officers see the country full of horses, and abound 
with every comfort, and feel themselves oppressed on every side 
with difficulties and distress, they are almost ready to mutiny; 
nor do I believe they will bear it much longer." 

Throughout the stimmer the army was largely dependent 
upon supplies and forage which was obtained by requisition upon 
the inhabitants, a course of action which was forced upon Washing- 
ton and his Quartermaster General, Greene, by the neglect of the 
country to furnish subsistence to the army. Washington ad- 
dressed the Committee of Co-Operation from his Headquarters 
at Orangetown, 17th August, 1780, giving an abstract of the 
returns of men furnished to the i6th of August (but he took 
pains to add that ' ' the return of the Rhode Island recruits is 
of the last of July; more may have since joined"), from which 
it is learned that 6143 men had been received on account of the 
16,540 called for. Rhode Island was represented by 502 men, 
and was deficient but 198, the best showing of all the states; 
while Pennsylvania and New York lacked the greater part of 
their quota, the former having supplied less than Rhode Island, 
out of a quota five times as large, and the latter still less. Fifty- 
two hundred and thirteen of the 6143 men then with Washington, 
were from New England. It is true that both Pennsylvania and 
New York were obliged to protect their frontiers, just as until 
the departure of the British from Newport in the fall of 1779, 
Rhode Island had to guard her coast line of more than sixty 
miles. ' Nor must it be forgotten that Connecticut was forced to 

' The population of Rhode Island in 1782, was 51,869. Of these 9023 were 
white males between the ages of 16 and 50; 11,752 were males under 15 



Military Life 173 

guard her coast towns, which during the entire war were exposed 
to the menace of the enemy fleet, and raiding parties from Long 
Island and New York. 

Washington in this information for the Committee also 
stated the number of "militia for three months" who had taken 
the field under his orders, a total of 3700, comprising 1300 from 
New York and New Jersey, which included the short campaign 
around Springfield, and 2400 from Massachusetts and New 
Hampshire. 

It was with this inadequate army that he defended the coun- 
try about New York, and kept the enemy bottled up, though as 
he related to Governor Trumbull in October, they had it in their 
power to ravage the country wherever they pleased, and the 
preceding spring "threatened the destruction of all our baggage 
and stores, saved by a good countenance more than by an ability 
to defend them," referring to the gallant behaviour of Colonel 
Angell's regiment at Springfield, and the spirited and bold 
manner in which General Greene's small force had beaten back 
Knyphausen. 

Colonel Angell's correspondence with the Rhode Island au- 
thorities concerning the needs of his regiment, both regarding pay 
and supplies, can be followed by copies of letters taken from his 
Letter Book: 

Camp English Neighbour Hood 31^* August 1780. 
Sir 

Inclos'd have Sent your Excellency a pay Abstract of my 
Reg* for their propotion of the 75.000 pounds, ordered in July 
Session, to be paid to the line of the State, on the depreciation 
Ace* allso a list of the officers and men who Rec^ the 21.792 
pounds Sent in by the state in august 1 780 towards the deprecia- 
tion account, and by Compairing this list with the abstract, it 
will appear that the money fell short of paying the Regiment 
(in the proportion of one hundred dollars for a pound of their 
monthly pay) one L* and 16 men Except 30 Dollars. 

The Act of the General Assembly passed the 2"^ July 1780. 
Resolving that So much of the Confiscated lands in the State 
Should be Set off as would discharge the ballances due to the 
officers and Soldiers of the Continental Battalions for the depre- 

and 2563 were males above 50. In addition there 511 negro, 63 mulatto 
and 67 Indian males between the ages of 16 and 50. 



174 Israel Angell 

ciation of their wages, I have laid them before the officers, but 
as the Committee for ascertaining the Ballances due them, and 
for apprising the lands, were all appointed by the State, they 
declined excepting the land on those terms; and as they seem'd 
much divided in opinion about the matter; left them to act 
their own pleasuer, as for my own part what little may be due 
to me. Should be willing to receive the land, and have no ob- 
jection to the Gentlemen who are appointed to Set off and 
apprize the Same. 

I am with all due Respect your 
Most obedient Humble Serv* 
Gov Greene Israel Angell 



Camp Tunrapee 17*.^ September 1780. 
Gentlemen, 

The distrest Situation of the troops under My Command 
for the want of Blankets, makes it Necessary in the Discharge of 
my duty, to make Application to you for Some Relief, frequent 
Application has ben made to the Cloathers have and have not 
ben able to get a Single one, nor See no prospect of getting any, 
and have but 37 in the Regiment Exclusive of the light Infantry 
Company which was Detached, and had no Return from them; 
the Cold Season is advancing which will Soon make it very Dis- 
agreeable for the men to live in the field without Blankets, and 
prejudicial to their health. Could the Blankets possibly be 
procured, Breeches, Shirts and Stockings or Overalls, the men 
might make out comfortably till late in the winter, by reason of 
their Cloathing^ Coming to hand so late for the last year. The 
total of the Regiment Commission Non. Commissioned officers 
& privats is 295. 

Governor and Council, I am Gentlemen with Respect 
State of Rhode Island and Esteem your most Obed. & 

very Hb^ Serv. 

Israel Angell 

During August and the following month. Colonel Angell 
was often ill, suffering from some malady which caused him 
great suffering, and often incapacitated him from duty. The 
regiment followed the fortunes of the main army, simply chang- 
ing their camp from time to time, and participating in the 
practise manoeuvres. 

The regiment had rejoined the army 27th June at Ramapo; 
during July it was at Preakness, and on the 31st crossed the 






Zvf^XJ-^-'^ 



;^1 






*v»-t/t >W^«. ^x^iL^^ ^^^tw^v^ ^t'/C^a^tay'^^ -/^-^^ /''^ ^>-i-**t_'7^^!^^ 

Page from Letter-book of Colonel Angell 



Fi.'-V* ^-*--»*#-y- 




Military Life i75 

Hudson at Kings Ferry, on tidings that the English fleet with 
many transports had sailed east to attack Rochambeau. The 
feint against New York brought the enemy back, and on the 5th 
the army recrossed the Hudson, and was encamped near Dobb's 
Ferry, at Tappan (Orangetown) 8th August, thence moved to 
Ten Eyck on the 23d. Colonel Angell's diary for this period 
has been printed. He notes that they encamped on a large plain 
at a place called Liberty Pole, near English Neighborhood, and 
that it "was an exceeding hot day." It was during this march, 
that a regiment under command of Major John Porter, having 
halted for a rest, was passed by General Poor, who ordered 
Major Porter to march his men at once. Giving the order, 
which was not obeyed promptly, while the men still loitered, 
Poor returned and reprimanded Porter severely for the lack of 
discipline his men had showed. Resenting this. Poor having 
told Porter he would waive his rank, the latter challenged the 
General and a duel was fought, resulting in General Poor being 
wounded. The matter was hushed up, and on the death of 
General Poor on the 8th September, as noted by Colonel Angell, 
the cause of his death was given out as putrid fever. Soon 
after. Porter was relieved of his command, but later was assigned 
as aide-de-camp to Lafayette. Porter had been educated for 
the ministry, but never ordained. He was a good officer, and 
being offended followed but the custom of the day. General 
Poor was buried loth September at Hackensack with much 
pomp and ceremony, and Colonel Angell with "a numerous 
concourse of people" was present. 

Depreciation of the Continental currency continued. In 
September, Rhode Island advanced £58,712 to Angell's regiment 
on account of depreciation, this being their proportion of £75,000 
heretofore ordered paid the regiment. 

The arrival off Newport of the French fleet under Rocham- 
beau on the loth July, was known in camp 14th July, and was 
announced in General Orders on the 20th. Later came the news 
of the disastrous defeat of General Gates at Camden, which 
reached camp on the 5th September. During these months the 
weather had been extremely hot and dry. On the 4th September 
the regiment was encamped with the rest of the main army at 
Steenrapie, on the 20th returned to Tappan, and on the 13th was 



176 Israel Angell 

reviewed by Washington with a number of chiefs of the Oneida 
Nation in his retinue. On the 17th Washington set off for 
Hartford to meet Rochambeau, but before he departed he assent- 
ed to Colonel Angell 's request for a Court of Enquiry concerning 
his behaviour on the 23d June. For some unknown reason 
there had been spread a "report very prejudicial to my charac- 
ter," writes the Colonel. On the i8th of August the officers 
of his regiment requested him to ask for a Court of Enquiry. 
Undecided whether the malignant story circulated about him was 
worthy his consideration, he consulted Greene about it on the loth 
September, who advised him to immediately ask for an investi- 
gation. He did this successfully the following day. The Order 
was issued the 12th, ' the court sat on the 14th, and on the i8th 
its finding was announced in orders. It would seem from Colonel 
Angell's taking pains to have this made known in Providence, 
that the report had been traced to Rhode Island, very likely 
originating from some idle gossip, which took more than a 
month to reach camp. 

Following is a copy of Colonel Angell's request for a Court 
of Enquiry, taken from his Letter-Book : 

Camp Tunrapee ii**» Septr 1780. 
Sir: 

Thro a peculiar Misfortune, which it was not in my power to 
foresee or prevent, my position during the time my Regiment 
was Engaged at Springfield on the 2y'^ of June last, was Such as 
to give occasion for very Severe remarks on my Conduct, and 
Reports have since Spread which place my military Character 
in a very unfavourable light — The Reputation of an Officer and 
man of Honor ought ever to be esteem'd his most valuable 
Possession, the wounds therefore inflicted on mine, have given 
me the most Sensible pain, tho I am conscious it was not in my 
power to avoid the Circumstances that have occassion'd them, 
as passing over reports so highly Injurious to my Character 

' Head Quarters Tunrappee Sept.' 12 thi78o 
A Court of Enquiry is Ordered to Sett tomorrow Morning 9 o'clock in the 
Presidents Marquee at the request of Col? Angell to Examine into his Conduct 
in the action of Springfield, and Report their Opinion thereon. 
Col. Nixon is appointed President, Lt Colo.s Dehart and Vose, Majors Reid 
and Green Members, all wittnesses and Persons Concerned are desired to 
attend. 



Military Life i77 

would be a tacit acknowledgement of the Justice of them, I 
am under the disagreable necessity of Applying to your Excel- 
lencey for a Court of Enquiry, that the true Circumstances of 
the matter may be publickly Investigated and my Conduct 
placed in its proper light I flatter my Self your Excellency will 
enter so far into my feelings on the unhappy Occasion as to 
give me an Opportunity to vindicate my Character as Speedily 
as possible. 

His Excellencey GenJ I have the Honour to be your 

Washington Excellenceys most Obedient 

Humble Serv^ 

Israel Angell 

Immediately upon learning the report of the court. Colonel 
Angell addressed the publisher of the Providence Gazette^ 
requesting him to make the result known: 

Tunrapee, Septr i8, 1780. 

Mr. Carter please to insert the following lines in your paper, 
which will oblige your friend and hum^f Servt^ 

Israel Angell. 

From the Providence "Gazette" to the Public. 

Through Misrepresentation or Some means, a report was Spread 
in the Army which placed my Military Character in a very 
unfavourable light, as the reputation of an Officer, and man of 
Honor ought ever to be Esteem'd his most valuable possession, 
the wounds therefore inflicted on mine, laid me under the neces- 
sity of Applying to the Commander in Chief, for a Court of 
Enquiry that the true Circumstances of the matter might be 
publickly Investigated, and my Conduct Placed in its proper 
light. His Excellency was pleased to order a Court, of which 
the following is their Report, 

Tunrapee Sept' 18, 1780 

At a Court of Enquiry Call'd by desire of Col. Angell to Enquire 
into a report Relative to his being absent from his Regiment in 
the Action at Springfield the 2y<^ of June last. Col? Nixon 
President. The Court having heard and duly Considered the 
Evidences, are Unanimously of Opinion that Col° Angell was 
in the Action at Springfield on the 23'"^ of June last with his 
Regiment, and in the Execution of his duty, and behaved like 
a Brave and Good Officer. — 



178 Israel Angell 

Major General Greene Excepts and Approves of the Opinion 
of the Court. 

The Commander in Chief being absent, the Command 
devolved upon General Greene — was the reason that the report 
was made to him. 

Israel Angell. 
Mr. Carter, 
Printer in Providence. 



While Washington was absent at Hartford occurred the treason 
of Arnold. Colonel Angell notes the event in his diary under 
26th September: 

The most extraordinary affair happened yesterday that ever 
has taken place since the War; General Benedict Arnold, 
who commanded at West Point, went to the enemy. His Ex- 
cellency the Commander in Chief having been to Hartford to 
meet the French General and Admiral, was on his way to join 
the army, and yesterday the Adjutant General of the British 
army was taken at Tarry town as a spy by three militia men. 
The news soon reached West Point, and on the appearance of 
his Excellency coming to the post. General Arnold went down 
to the river side with six men with him, got into a boat, went 
down the river to the English frigate that lay there, and went 
on board of her, and she immediately set sail for New York; 
and by the best information he had been carrying on a treacherous 
correspondence with the enemy, and had agreed to sell them 
that post with all the men, but Heaven directed it otherwise. 
On receiving this intelligence, the whole Army was ordered to 
be ready to march as soon as possible. We all turned out, went 
to cooking, and packing up their baggage the Pennsylvania line 
marched off and left their baggage to follow, it being expected 
that the Enemy would attempt to take West Point this night. 
The news come to us a little after midnight, had not this horrid 
Treason been discovered America would have received a deadly 
wound if not a fatal stab. 

On the 28th with a number of officers, Angell rode to meet 
Washington, but the latter reached camp by another road. 
Angell noted that the "two prisoners" (Major Andre and Joshua 
Smith), were brought under guard to the Camp on the evening 
of the 28th. On the 29th Angell was Officer of the Day. This 
was the date of the Court Martial which condemned Andre to 
death as a spy, and on the 2d October he was hung. 



Military Life i79 

Colonel Angell's diary ends with the month of September. 
On I St October he wrote from Orangetown, by Captain Tew, 
to the Governor of Rhode Island, relative to the money due the 
regiment : 

Camp Orange Town i^* Octr 1780 
Gentlemen 

These will be delivered you by Cap* William Tew, who is 
sent (by leave obtained from The Commander in Chief and the 
Consent of the Officers of the Regiment) to receive the proportion 
of the 75.000 pounds, Ordered in July Sesions to be paid to the 
line of the State on the depreciation Account, the Abstract 
Assertaining the Regiments proportion of the money was Sent 
the 31^!^ of August last, I have allso to inform you that it is the 
opinion of the Officers in General, that Receiving the Confiscated 
lands for the ballances due them would be attended with much 
Difficulty and perhaps Confusion among them in making a 
division of Said lands. They therefore decline taking the Same, 
My Sentiments on the matter was fully Exprest in my letter of 
the 31st of August to the Governor, — Gentlemen if you Recollect 
I wrote to you Some time last winter. Concerning promotions 
and new Appointments which had taken place in my Regiment 
by orders from Gen} Gates, but was Informed by L* Col° Olney 
that the Assembly would not approve of the appointments 
except the Commander in Chief would Certify that, That num- 
ber of Officers was Necessary in the Regiment, upon which I 
imeadetly applyed to his Excellency and procured Such a Certifi- 
cate Signed by himself, Sent it on to the State Derected to the 
Governor and Council, but have heard nothing of the Matter 
Since, Though I have wrote once before on the Subject. There- 
fore have reason to think that the letters have miscarried, or 
that the approbation of their Appointments was Sent to the 
board of war and are there mislaid. And as the Gentlemen have 
Serv'd a long time without their Commissions and are very 
Anxious to know whether they are to have them or not, often 
Applying to me on the Subject, beg the Council would be pleas 'd 
to inform me by Capt Tew whether the letters ever come to 
hand, and if they did what is done on the matter, 

I am Gentlemen your most Obd*^ 
The Governor and Humble Serv*^ 

Council State Rhode Island Israel Angell 



General Greene was given the command of West Point 
and general direction of matters on the east of the Hudson 
river, and on the 7th October, four brigades, including Stark's, 



i8o Israel Angell 

marched for West Point, encamping the night of the yth at 
Haverstraw. The garrison of West Point was about 3000 men. 
Stark's brigade was assigned to Fort Clinton. Greene received 
word of his appointment to the command of the Southern 
Department on the i6th, and the same day General Heath 
arrived from Rhode Island. On the 19th Colonel Sherburne, 
whose regiment had been "reduced" some time before, and who 
had become supernumerary, departed for Rhode Island. ' Prob- 
ably in November Colonel Angell obtained leave of absence and 
proceeded to Rhode Island, where he consulted with Colonel 
Christopher Greene concerning the reorganization of the Rhode 
Island regiment. On the ist of January, 1781, he wrote to 
Washington, from Johnston: 

On the arrival of the New Arrangement of the army sent me 
by Major Thayer I Applied to Col° Greene and informed him that 
I thought it Necessary to send on a list of the Officers who tarried 
in Service, togeather with the names of those who Retired, to Your 
Excellency as soon as possible, (as he inclined to take the Reg!) but 
he said he thought there was no necessity of being in a hurry 
about the matter, and as the time is now Come when by a Reso- 
lution of Congress the troops should have been in the field, and 
knowing that there has been no Arrangement as yet sent to your 
Excellency, has induced me to write, in order to Exculpate 
myself from blame, as I think it ought to have bin done a month 
before this, but being a Supernumery did not conceive it to be 
my duty to interfear in the matter further than I did. 

I Expect to Come to the Army in a few days and bring some 
money for the Rhode Island Line from the State, Settle my 
public Acc^s and retire, though I should have ben happy in 
Serving my Country to the Eand of the war, had I lived to seen 
that day, if my Services had ben necessary, as I Entered it in 
the earliest period. However I shall Ever stand ready to assist 
in the defence of my Country to the best of my Capacity and 
Risk of my life. 

Congress had passed the Act alluded to on the 3d October, 
by which the two Rhode Island regiments were reduced to 
one regiment. The allusion to the forwarding of the official 
promulgation of the order by Major Thayer would seem to 
prove that Thayer had been left at Camp in command of the 

'Greene's L(fe oj Greene. 




axv •«>■; ' 












c 










Letter to General Washington 



'^^-^/•■7,^' 



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y^fi<t:*t^4^ >/ -£^/zi.,^ 
















^^^^-^- 






9- 






Letler to General Washington 



Military Life i8i 

regiment. Washington's order to Colonel Greene to march his 
regiment from Rhode Island, and join the army at Peekskill, 
was dated 2d January, 1781. A captain and two subalterns 
were ordered to be left behind to obtain and forward recruits. 
{Sparks MSS. 59.) The regiment crossed the Hudson, and 
erected huts, naming their cantonment Rhode Island Village. » 
The actual consolidation of the two regiments took place on the 
17th February. The field officers were Greene, Lieut. -Colo- 
nel Olney, and Major Ebenezer Flagg. The latter was in com- 
mand of an outpost on the Croton River and while Colonel Greene 
was visiting this post, staying over night, it was attacked by 
Colonel Delancey with his dragoons, part of a refugee corps. 
Flagg was killed. Greene, fatally wounded, was forced to ride 
with his captors, succtunbing to his wounds,^ 13th May, 1781. 
The sword voted him by Congress was delivered to his family, 
after his death. 

On the death of Colonel Greene, Jeremiah Olney took com- 
mand of the Rhode Island regiment, as Lieut. -Colonel Command- 
ant, and held the command until the regiment was discharged 
the service. 

Colonel Angell's diary commences again on the 14th Febru- 
ary, 1 78 1, the day he left for West Point with money to pay off 
the men of his old regiment. Greene had preceded him, and 
taken over the command. On Angell's arrival he was received 
with cheers by his old command, and immediately took up the 
matter in hand, of paying off the troops. He had reached camp 

' In a letter to General Heath, 12th November, Washington presents a 
tentative plan for the winter quarters of the army, when the levies leave on 
1st January. He proposed to place the New Hampshire and Rhode Island 
troops at the gorge of the moimtain, near the Continental village, who were 
to furnish a detachment more to the left, in the vicinity of Robinson's Mills. 
The territory south of the American lines was overrun with Cow-boys, marau- 
ders of the worst description, recruited from the desperate characters of both 
armies and the neighborhood. The name Cow-boys was generally given to 
those bands who adhered to the King, and Skinners to those who professed 
loyalty to the United States. Both were equally vicious, and attempts to 
suppress them led to many minor but stirring combats. 

* Narrative of Stephen Olney, who was in command of the light infantry 
company of the regiment, and who was soon after detached with his company 
and ordered to Virginia, where he distinguished himself at the capture of 
Comwallis at Yorktown. 



1 82 Israel Angell 

on the 1 8th of February,' and just one month later, having 
settled his accounts, he returned to Rhode Island, reaching home 
on the 25th, and entering in his diary, "thus ends the service 
with me." 

Washington in a letter to a member of a Committee of Con- 
gress, relative to General Greene's resignation as Quartermaster- 
General, August, 1780, took occasion to call to the attention of 
Congress a few plain truths. One paragraph is especially applic- 
able to the services of Colonel Angell: 

It does not require with you, I am sure, at this time of day, 
arguments to prove that there is no set of men in the United 
States, considered as a body, that have made the same sacri- 
fices of their interest in support of the common cause, as the 
officers of the American army; that nothing but love of their 
country, of honor, and a desire of seeing their labors crowned • ; 

with success, could possibly induce them to continue one mo- 
ment in service; that no officer can live upon his pay; that 
hundreds having spent their little all in addition to their scanty 
public allowance, have resigned because they could no longer 
support themselves as officers ; that numbers are at this moment 
rendered unfit for duty for want of clothing, while the rest are 
wasting their property, and some of them verging fast to the 
gulf of poverty and distress. 

' It was on the 25th, while crossing the Hudson with Colonel Greene on 
the way to Headquarters, that Colonel Angell rescued Ensign Rogers who had 
fallen through the ice. Washington was in Rhode Island from 6th to 15th . 

March, 1781, visiting both Newport and Providence. 



Part III 
Genealogical 



183 



THE FAMILY RECORD OF ISRAEL ANGELL 

Israel Angell in 1800, or possibly the following year, drew off a record of 
his family. This is reproduced on opposite page. Some members of the family 
added the dates of death occurring later than 1800. 

In addition to this record there exists in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell, the 
family Bible of Israel Angell, in which there appear a few additional items 
concerning the family. The latter record has been accepted where differences 
in dates are found. Information given by town records is scanty. From the 
various sources, including Avery F. Angell's "Genealogy of the Descendants 
of Thomas Angell," published in 1872, the following account of Colonel 
Angell's immediate family is compiled. No attempt is here made to record 
all his descendants. 

ISRAEL ANGELL was born on Wednesday, 13 August, 
1740, "Old Style" (24th August, present reckoning, which agrees 
with age given at death; but it is probable that in figuring the 
year of his birth, and having in mind "Old Style," Colonel 
Angell made an error of one year, which would make him in 
his ninety -first year at decease, not his ninety-second). He died 
4th May, 1832.^ 

He married 20 February, 1765, Martha, daughter of Stephen 
and Martha (Olney) Angell of Johnston, who was born 13 
February, 1747, and who died 16 March, 1793, aged "46 years, 
20 days."^ 

Colonel Angell married, second, Susanna Wight, widow, 
daughter of Consider and Dilly Luther, born 28 February, 1765, 
who died 17 May, 1824, when it was recorded that she had been 
a member of the Baptist Church for forty-two years. " Consider 
Luther, born 5 April, 1726, died 13 May, 181 1". {Family Bible.) 

' This date is from the Family Bible. According to the obituary notice 
printed at time of his death, the date was the 3d of May. 

' If her age was reckoned according to birth date "New Style," she would 
have been thirty or thirty-one days more than forty-six years; but if her 
birth was 13th February "Old Style" she was born not in 1747 our reckoning, 
but in 1748, and her age at death would have been forty-five years. She was 
probably bom 13th February, 1746-47 (equivalent to 24th February, 1747 > 
"New Style"). 

185 



1 86 Israel Angell 

Colonel Angell married, third, 30 April, 1826, Sarah Angell, 
widow of Richard Angell of Smithfield, daughter of David and 
Elizabeth Wood of Rehoboth, Mass., born 16 (or 10) April, 
1770; died 10 August, 1830, "aged 60 years, 3 months, 26 days." 
{Bible.) Rehoboth records give her birth as 4 April, 1770, and 
her first marriage, 13 February, 1791. 

The will of Stephen Angell, dated 27 March, 1771, was proved 11 July 
1772. To his son William he gave all his real estate in Johnston and Smith- 
field, and elsewhere, and all his right in the sawmill called Olney's Mills. He 
had already provided fully for his sons Christopher, Ezekiel, Charles, and 
James, and for his two daughters Sarah Eddy and Martha Angell, the latter 
upon their marriage. Sons Gideon and John received small legacies. Dan- 
iel is mentioned only in connection with his appointment as joint executor 
with William, who are to pay bills and divide the residue equally. He died 25 
June, 1772, leaving personal property to the value of £113-14-7. {Johnston 
Probate Records.) 

Children : 

Mary, bom 17 June, 1766; died 14 September, 1849, unmarried. 
Elizabeth, born 27 April, 1768; died 25 December, 1796; married James 

Lewis. 
Sarah, bom 17 October, 1769; died 10 October, 1849. 
Asa, bom 24 August, 1771; died 22 June, 1842; married Cynthia Hill. 

They settled in New Berlin, Chenango County, N. Y. 
Abner, born 21 Febmary, 1773; died 14 September, 1853; married 27 

April, 1797, Barbara Roberts, bom 5 April, 1778, died 11 May, 1842. 

They removed to New Berlin, N. Y. 
Israel, bom 12 September, 1775; died 7 July, 1821, aged 45 years, 9 

months, 25 days; married Honor Brown. They removed to New 

Berlin, N. Y. 
Martha, bom 23 August (Bible), 1779; died 26' March, 1824; married 

II January, 1798, James Lewis, her brother-in-law. 
Naomi, bom i September, 1781; died 11 February, 1844; married Charles 

Hinckley, and removed to Unadilla, N. Y. 
Ruth, bom 10 May, 1785, died during the year preceding September, 

1857; married Olney Angell, son of Richard and Sarah (Wood) 

Angell. She appears to have married, first, Alfred Draper. 
Stephen, bom 4 July, 1787; died 29 May, 1845; married Huldah Williams. 

They lived in Providence. 
Oliver, bom i December, 1790; married Deborah Cushing. He was of 

Smithfield in 1857. 

'Or the loth March. James Lewis was bom 11 February, 1767; died 
23 March, 1850. His son Arnold Angell Lewis, bom 11 March, 1814, 
died 4 April, 1899, was of New York. He married 3 April, 1837, Mary Anna 
Caldecott, bom 12 August, 18 10; died 27 May, 1880. Their daughter, 
Louise married Franklyn Hallett Lovell of New York, son of George and 
Adeline (Hallett) Lovell of Massachusetts. Their children are: Isabel Lovell 
married Grafton Duvall Dorsey, son of Grafton Duvall and Martha Matilda 
Ann (Claggett) Dorsey of Maryland; and F. Hallett Lovell, Jr., married 
Florence Brown, daughter of J. Henry and Isabella (Hooper) Lane of New 
York. 




Family Record in Handwriting of Israel Angell 
Original in Possession of Mr. H. I. Angell 






I 



.-^K. '' 



1 86 



Israel Angell 



J 



rd, 30 April, 1826, Sarah Angell 
mithfield, daughter of David anr^ 
1, Mass., born 16 (or 10) April 
iged 60 years, 3 months, 26 days.' 

■5 give her birth as 4 April, 1770, anci 

ruary, 1791. 

. dated 27 Mar^^^ '"^-"^ "-^- t^t-..,-,.,i .t j-ii- 

; ve all his real 1 

< right in the saw 

iully for his sons Christoph t, Charles, ari' 

o daughters Sarah Eddy and '.vagell, the lattei 

Sons Gideon and John received sinall legacies. Dan 

in connection with his appointment as joint execute; 

are to pay bills and divide the residue equally. He died 25 

ig personal property to the value of £113-14-7. {Johnston 



Sarah, \-o 
Asa, h 
Tb- 



Children : 

Mar^9^A {9^e,^97Si!ifey^?^tSfil^?,0?^.3.^«a?3ed. 
Elizabeth, l^J7ll>li?..^#^d^^'fe2^cgplfgfti^ie^; married Jame- 

•:■ 17 0;;t.^*;?r T-^0; uiei^ J:> October, 1849. 

1842; married Cynthia Hill 
Count\^ N Y. 

^3; married 27 
Ti May, 1842 

•d 45 years, y 
lOved to New 

1824; married 

4.4; married Charles 

ir preceding September, 
i-iicnard an^ Sarah (Wood) 
-irst, Alfred" Draper. 
^ . -^ --".r, »>i45; married Huldah Williams. 

790; married Deborah Cushing. He was of 



Angell. 
Stephen, born . j 

They lived m 
Oliver, bom i D^ 

Smithfield in 1857. 



'Or the loth March. James Lewis was bom 11 February, 1767; die' 
23 March, 1850. His son Arnold Angell Lewis, bom 11 March, i8i.» 
died 4 April, 1899, was of New York. He married 3 April, 1837, Mary Ana.i 
Caldecott, bora 12 August, 1810; died 27 May, 1880. Their daughter 
Louise married Franklyn Hallett Lovell of New York, son of George ami 
Adeline (llallett) Lovell of Massachusetts. Their children are: Isabel Loveli 
married Grafton Duvall Dorsey, son of Grafton Duvall and Martha Matilda 
'"' ■•" '" — ?y of Maryland; and F. Hallett Lovell,. Jr., marricfl 
}ter of J. Henry and Isabella (Hooper) Lane of New 



Genealogical 187 



By second marriage: 



Luther, bom ii May, 1794; died 19 December, 1859; married Patience 
Angell. Lived in Providence. 

Son, bom and died February, 1797. Lived but two days. 

Susannah, bom 23 January, 1798; died 3 May, 1877; married Moses 
Potter of Scituate, R. L 

Mehitabel, bom 31 January, 1800; died i September, 1877; married 
29 December, 1822, at Smithfield, William B. Wilkinson of Cumber- 
land, R. I. {Providence Gazette). In 1857 they were living at Inde- 
pendence, Iowa. 

Henry, bom 22 May, 1802; died after 1856; married EUza Wilkinson, a 
sister of William B. Wilkinson. 

Isaac, bom 26 January, 1809; died 22 September, 1875; married 9 March, 
1837, Hannah Gaskill, daughter of Hosea and Hannah Gaskill. He 
married, second, Emeline Vosburgh. They Uved in Williamsburgh, 
N. Y. 



[On the following pages will be found reproductions of Ancestral Charts 
of Israel and Martha Angell, and brief notices of their ancestors.] 



AVaSLL 



Ano9stry of Colonel Israel m^ 
.Thome Angoll -| Angoll 

John Ang6ll-i 



48HT0M 



FIELD 



,Jamee,*« I 

U Alioe Aabton J 
Alice J 



OLNBXTh<»aa 

ASHTOK,Marie 

MARCH 



John Field 

fRuth 
"J- Thomas Olney 



Elizabeth March 



J Ruth Field 



m 



Thomas Olney — i 



BARNES ^ThoTuas* 



Thoinas Barnes 



Anna 
ALB IB, Ben jam! 



Esinnah 



J- 

J- Prudence Albie 



} 



Lydia Barnes 



< 
m 

> 



5 «= 



ARNOLD 



Thoinas Arnold 



PARKHlFST,George"l 
Phebe -J 



Phebe Parkhurs 



6 M I T H John 

"the l&son" • John Smith 



Elizabeth 



]- 



ISRAEL ANQBLL 
4^ 



Eleazer Arnold- 



m 
r 

> 

CD 

m 



z 



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"the miller" f-John Smith 

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189 



190 Israel Angell 

ANGELL 

THOMAS', married ALICE ASHTON,* daughter of James and 
Alice Ashton of St. Albans, Herts., baptized ist February, 
1617-18, at St. Albans. She died 24th December, 1694, 
leaving a will dated 21st October, 1694, proved 15th Janu- 
ary following, in which she named all her children, and be- 
queathed " unto my daughter Alice Whipple one trunke & 
a Deske which my mother gave to me." 

JOHN% married RUTH FIELD, daughter of John and (Ruth?) 
Field, of Providence, 7th January, 1669-70. She was living 
in 1727. 

John Angell testified in December, 17 16, that he was aged about 
70 years, which indicates the year 1646 as the date of birth. He 
may not have been the eldest child, although the eldest of the 
children to reach mattirity. He was one of those who " staid and 
went not away " as part of the garrison in 1676, when the greater 
part of the town was destroyed by the Indian enemy. He added 
to the estate inherited from his father, and probably from his 
tmcle James Ashton, and as each of his elder sons became settled, 
he gave them lands, or house and lands. His estate was admin- 
istered upon by his widow and son Hope. He died 27th July, 1720. 

HOPE^ married LYDIA OLNEY, daughter of Thomas and 
Lydia (Barnes) Olney, 22d May, 1712. She was born 30th 
April, 1688, and died 1748, aged 60 years, 9 months, seven 
days. 

Hope Angell, born 22d December, 1685, yoiuigest son of John, 
was named for an uncle, who died unmarried prior to his birth. 
He died nth February, 1759, leaving a will with minute pro- 
visions for the disposal of his estate. He was Deputy, and Lieu- 
tenant of a militia company. His will, dated 12th April, 1755, was 
proved 19th May, 1759. 

OLIVERS, married NAOMI SMITH, daughter of Israel and 
Elizabeth (Arnold) Smith, 13th June, 1740, at Providence. 
She was born 28th October, 1720, and died 3d December, 
1799, at North Providence. 

Oliver Angell was bom 20th February, 1717-18. He lived in 
North Providence, on land inherited from his father, and was 
well-to-do. He died ist April, 1799, at North Providence. 

ISRAEL ANGELL s. 

* Neither the date of marriage, nor baptism or birth of any of the children, 
of Thomas Angell are of record. He received a grant of land in 637. For 
probable date of the Civil Compact see Chapin: Documentary History of Rhode 
Island, vol. i. 



Genealogical 



191 



ANGELL 

THOMAS S married ALICE ASHTON. 

Thomas Angell accompanied Roger Williams when he left 
Salem in January, 1635-36, and by Williams is described as "a 
lad of Richard Watermans."* He was at this time a minor, but 
probably attained his majority in 1638, which would bring his 
birth in 1617. His age is nowhere given, nor has his baptisrn or 
the names of his parents been discovered. He was certainly 
married as early as 1645. Thomas Angell signed the compact 
of 1638-39, promising obedience to the orders made by masters 
of families in Providence, and the later Combination of 1640. 
He was Commissioner, Deputy, Constable, etc., and conducted 
himself in such a way as to avoid participation in the controversies 
which at times disturbed the settlement. On 13 March, 1656-7 
" a presentment by Mr. Roger Williams against Thomas Harris, 
William Wigenden and Thomas Aingell for Ringeleaders in new 
devisions in the CoUony " failed, no prosecutor appearing. At 
his death, he left what was for the time and place a respectable 
estate. His will, dated May, 1685, was not proved tmtil the i8th 
September, 1694. 



JOHN% married RUTH FIELD. 



JOHN^ married SARAH CLEMENCE, daughter of Richard 
and Sarah (Smith) Clemence, born nth November, 1688. 

John Angell lived in that part of Providence, now Johnston. 
He died 3d December, 1744. 



STEPHENS married MARTHA OLNEY, daughter of Epenetus 
and Mary (Williams) Olney, i6th May, 1728. 

Stephen Angell lived in Johnston, and possessed an ample 
estate for his needs, and wherewith to provide for his children. 
His will is dated 7th March, 1771. He died the following January. 



MARTHAS, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 

Martha Angell was bom 13th February, 1747; died i6th March, 
1793- 

* Richard Waterman came to Salem in 1629. He removed to Providence 
with Thomas Olney and others in 1638. There is a well established tradition 
that he was a relative of Thomas Angell. The tradition that Angell came with 
Williams from England, is undoubtedly based upon the fact that he was 
Williams's companion on his short voyage down the river in 1636, and had 
accompanied him from Salem. There is absolutely no evidence that he ac- 
companied Williams across the ocean. 



192 Israel Angel 1 



ASHTO N 

JAMES \* married ALICE. 

James and Alice Ashton had ten children baptized at St. 
Albans, between the years 1604 and 1630 inclusive. There is 
record of burial of the "wife of James Ashton," 22d May, 1643, 
and of a James Ashton in May, 1659. As there was a yotinger 
James of St. Albans, probably son of Daniel, it is not clear to whom 
the entries allude. 

MARIE % married THOMAS OLNEY. 

Marie Ashton was baptized 25th August, 1605, at St. Albans, 
and married there i6th September, 1629, Thomas Olney. They 
came to New England in 1635. 

THOMAS^ OLNEY, married ELIZABETH MARCH. 

THOMAS^ OLNEY, married LYDIA BARNES. 

LYDIAs OLNEY, married HOPE ANGELL. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH. 

ISRAEL 7 ANGELL. 

* James Ashton of St. Albans, Herts., did not come to New England. His 
son, James, baptized 4th March, 1603-04, was of Providence in 1648, and 
was taxed there in September, 1687. No later mention of him occurs. Ap- 
parently he had no family in America. He was Commissioner, and in 1665, 
Deputy. In 1682, in a petition for lands, Epenetus Olney, son of Thomas, 
names his "uncle James Aston" {Providence Town Records; 17:8). In 1716, 
John Angell testified that in 1667 he was desired by his "uncle James Ashton," 
to care for certain land. As in 1681 James Ashton had a grant of land where 
his house had stood, it is evident it was burned by the Indians in 1676. Thomas 
Olney, Jr., was granted the adjoining lot. William "Austin" bom about 
1680, suggested as a son of James, was no connection, nor is there evidence to 
prove that James Ashton of Middleton, Monmouth Co., N. J., on whose estate 
administration was granted to Deliverance and James Ashton, 19 May, 1705, 
was a relative. 



Genealogical 193 



ASHTON 

JAMES',* married ALICE. He is found holding a messuage 
in St. Albans in 1618. The name is found associated with 
St. Albans and vicinity in the fifteenth century. There ap- 
pears to be no settlement of the estate of James Ashton of 
record. 

ALICES married THOMAS ANGELL. 

Alice Ashton was baptized at St. Albans, ist February, 1617-18; 
died 24th December, 1694, at Providence, R. I. Her sister Mary 
married Thomas Olney in 1629, at St. Albans. 

JOHN 3 ANGELL, married RUTH FIELD. 

HOPE 4 ANGELL, married LYDIA OLNEY. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

*The following children of James Ashton were baptized at St. Albans 
Abbey: James, 4th March, 1603-04; Marie, 25th August, 1605 (married 
Thomas Olney); John, 7th June, 1607; Martha, 12th March, 1608-09 (married 
i6th December, 1635, Thomas Redman of St. Albans); Alice, loth February, 
1610-11 (buried 27th June, 1613); Elizabeth, 7th March, 1611-12 (buried 
3d September, 1616); Daniel, 2d April, 1615; Alice, ist February, 1617-18 
(married Thomas Angell); Sara, 23d February, 1619-20; Thomas, i8th 
February, 1630 (but on the Bishop's Transcript called son of John and Alice, 
bapt. 1629). In St. Albans, contemporary with James and Alice, were 
Richard and wife Sarah, Thomas and wife Frances (Hawkins, whom he mar- 
ried 17th July, 1628), and Daniel and wife Susanna. Thomas and Martha 
Redman remained in St. Albans, and had many children. It is probable 
that James Ashton, Sr., lived with them in the latter years of his life; certainly 
there is no trace of his having come to New England. James Ashton of 
Providence was his son. 



13 



194 Israel Angell 

ARNOLD 

THOMAS S married PHEBE PARKHURST, daughter of 
George and Phebe Parkhurst, of Ipswich, Suffolk, England, 
baptized 29th November, 161 2. She survived her husband. 

Thomas Arnold* was of Watertown, Mass., as early as 25th 
July, 1636, when he was granted land. His age is nowhere stated, 
but he had a child bom prior to 1640, Susanna, who married 7th 
April, 1654, at Boston, John Famum. He was admitted Freeman 
13th May, 1640. He removed from Watertown in or soon after 
1655, having been heavily fined for neglect of the ordinance of 
baptism and neglect of public worship, and settled in that part 
of Providence which is now Smithfield, R. I. He was Deputy for 
Providence and member of the Town Council, and left a good estate, 
the disposal of which he arranged in his lifetime, and which was con- 
firmed by the Town Council in 1685. He died September, 1674. 

ELEAZER^, married ELEANOR SMITH, daughter of John 
and Elizabeth Smith. She died prior to August, 1722. 

Eleazer Arnold was bom 17th Jtme, 1651, at Watertown; 
died 29th August, 1722, at Providence, leaving a will dated 25th 
August, 1722. He was Deputy, memljer of Town Council, and 
Justice of the Peace. He built the house which passed to his son 
Jeremiah. This house built about 1687 in what is now the town 
of Lincoln, has been presented to the society for the preservation 
of New England antiquities. The stone chimney formerly ex- 
tended across the entire west end of the house. It is considered 
the finest extant example of " stone-end " house. 

ELIZABETH^, married ISRAEL SMITH, son of Joseph and 
Lydia (Gardiner) Smith, 3d June, 1718, at Providence. 

EHzabeth Arnold married 14th December, 1704, William 
Hawkins, Jr., of Providence, who died 8th October, 1712. Her 
will, dated ist July, 1758, proved 17th July following, names her 
children by both marriages, including daughter Naomi Angell. 
She died nth July, 1758. 

NAOMP SMITH, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

Naomi Smith was bom 28th October, 1720; died 3d December, 
1799, at North Providence. 

ISRAELS ANGELL. 

* Thomas Arnold was a cousin of Richard Arnold of London, goldsmith, 
who died 1644, leaving a will in which many relatives were named, among 
them "Thomas Arnold, who is now supposed to be in New England." See 
Waters' Gleanings, p. 882. Thomas was probably son of William Arnold of 
HoUesley, Suffolk, whose will of 16 16-17 names sons Richard and Thomas, 
minors, and nephew Richard Arnold. He was not half-brother of William 
Arnold of Rhode Island, who came from Somersetshire and was son of Nicholas 
Arnold. For proof of these assertions see New England Historical Genealogical 
Register, January, 1915, in which Mr. E. S. Jones has fully established the 
parentage of William Arnold, and also given the results of his investigations 
regarding Thomas Arnold, thereby correcting the erroneous pedigree, published 
many years ago, compiled by Horatio Somerby. 







■3 = 



3 o 

g oj 



W 



Genealogical i95 

ARNOLD 

NICHOLASS married ALICE GULLY, daughter of John Gully; 
baptized at Northover, Somersetshire, 29th September, 1553. 
She was buried at Ilminster,* 25th April, 1596. 

Nicholas Arnold had a daughter Tamzen baptized at North- 
over, 4th January, 1571. He removed to Ikninster, and married, 
second, Grace, who survived him, and by whom he had several 
children, one being named Thomas, who for many years was sup- 
posed to be Thomas Arnold of Rhode Island. The will of Nicholas 
Arnold was dated i8th January, 1622-23, and proved 28th July 
following, at Wells. 

WILLIAM % married CHRISTIAN PEAK, daughter of Thomas 
Peak of Muchelney, Somersetshire, said to have been born 
in 1583, died in Rhode Island. 

William Arnold* was overseer of his father's will. He sailed 
for New England, ist May, 1635, tarried a few months at Hingham, 
and was of Providence early in 1636, being one of the first to join 
Roger Williams at his settlement at Seekonk. With him was his 
family, of whom Benedict became prominent in the Colony, and 
was several years governor. William Arnold was one of the 
original members of the Baptist church, 1639, and became one of 
the chief Pawttixet settlers, and from 1642 to 1658 joined with 
them in admitting the jurisdiction of Massachusetts. His son 
Benedict records his birth as 24th June, 1587, but not his death, 
which took place in 1676 or 1677. 

JOANNA^ married ZACHARIAH RHODES. 

Joanna Arnold was bom 27th February, 1617-18, and was 
living in 1693. 

REBECCA4 RHODES, married DANIEL WILLIAMS. 
MARYS WILLIAMS, married EPENETUS OLNEY. 
MARTHA^ OLNEY, married STEPHEN ANGELL. 
MARTHA 7 ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 

* Ilminster is a few miles from Yeovil, whence came Stukely Wescott, whose 
daughter Damaris married 17th December, 1640, Benedict Arnold. "Stucklie 
Westcott" and Julian March ante were married 5 October, 1619. Damaris 
daughter of " Stuckle Westcott " baptized 2-1 January, 1620-1. Samuel, son 
of " Stuckeley Westcott " baptized 31 March, 1622-3. ( yeovil register.) 

* William Arnold left a record of immediate family and ancestry, con- 
tinued by his son Benedict, and printed in vol. 33 of the N. E. Hist. Gen. 
Register. For the story of William Arnold's connection with Roger Williams 
see Chapin: Documentary History oj Rhode Island, vol. i, Winthrop's Journal, 
etc. 



196 Israel Angell 



ALBIE 

BENJAMINS married HANNAH, living 1657. 

Benjamin Albie was admitted a Freeman of Massachusetts 
Bay, being then an inhabitant of Boston, i8th May, 1642. He 
had previously, 24th February, 1639-40, received a grant from the 
town , at Mount WoUaston, for three head of cattle, and a year 
later there is mention of land bought by him of John Button. 
He removed to Mediield, 1649, and it is said was of the Swansea 
church in 1663, and of Mendon in 1667. He signed the Swansea 
town agreement of 1667, with Thomas Barnes. There is no set- 
tlement of his estate. He was among those proprietors of Mendon, 
who, having abandoned the town at the outbreak of King Philip's 
War, did not return. 

PRUDENCES married THOMAS BARNES, i6th May, 1666, 
at Medfield, Mass. 

There is no record of the births of the children, except Sarah, 
of Benjamin Albie, nor, indeed, a complete Hst of them. Thomas 
Barnes sold to James Albie, son of Benjamin, 4th February, 1674, 
his twenty-acre house-lot in Mendon, acknowledging the deed, 
2 1st October, 1679, before Thomas Ward, Assistant (of Rhode 
Island)*. 

LYDIA^ BARNES, married THOMAS OLNEY. 

LYDIA" OLNEY, married HOPE ANGELL. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

*Proprietors' Records, Mendon. For some accovmt of the family of Benja- 
min Albie and his descendants, see Tilden's History of Medfield, Medfield Vital 
Records, and the published records of Mendon. Benjamin Albie received a 
grant of land from the town in consideration of erecting a grist mill, and his 
"son-in-law Thomas Barnes" is mentioned. Both shared in the division of 
meadow, 14th July, 1667. Apparently Albie was not connected with the town 
until 1664, but was one of the first board of Selectmen chosen 7th Jime, 1667. 
The record of this family in Savage's Genealogical Dictionary, is both incom- 
plete and incorrect. 



Genealogical 197 



BARNES 

THOMAS', married PRUDENCE ALBIE, daughter of Benja- 
min and Hannah Albie, at Medfield, Mass., i6th May, 1666. 
She died, and Thomas Barnes married (2) 12th November, 
1694, at Providence, Elizabeth, widow of Clement King. 

Thomas Barnes was probably bom early in 1643. No proof of 
his parentage* has been found. He removed from Medfield to 
Mendon with his father-in-law Benjamin Albie, and is called the 
latter 's "son in law" on Mendon records. His name is signed to 
the Swansea Town Agreement of 1667. He was a member of 
the Baptist Church there; and in 1672 was Constable. In 1689, 
his name appears among the non-resident proprietors of Reho- 
both. In 1693 he was ordained pastor of the Baptist Church in 
Swansea, and held that position at his death, 8th June, 1706. 
He left a good estate. 

LYDIA% married THOMAS OLNEY. 

Lydia Barnes was bom 26th August, 1667, at Mendon. She 
was living in 1722. 

LYDIA3 OLNEY, married HOPE ANGELL. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH. 

ISRAELS ANGELL. 

* Thomas Barnes of Htngham, Mass., 1637, Freeman 1645, died 29th No- 
vember, 1672, aged 70 years, had a son Thomas bom 21st May, 1643. In his 
will of 29th April, 1671, proved 29th April, 1673, "all the parties within men- 
tioned, sonnes of the deceased appearing," he names wife Anna, who was to 
have his whole estate until death or remarriage, son Peter, to whom the house 
and home lot, and son Thomas, to whom he gave his wearing apparel, and 
five pounds in current pay, to be paid by Peter within one year, son John, 40 
shillings, and daughters EUzabeth Murfett and Anna Breame. {Suffolk 
Probate, 7:297.) The widow Anna died 5th April, 1691. Thus it is clear that 
Thomas was living in 1673, but no trace of him has been found, unless he was 
the Thomas Barnes of Mendon and Swansea. 

Thomas and Prudence Barnes had the following children: Lydia, bom 
26th August, 1667; Anna, bom 12th February, 1668, at Mendon; and at 
Swansea, Thomas, bom 30th January, 1670; Sarah, bom 20th August, 1672; 
Elizabeth, bom 14th February, 1674; John, bom 9th April, 1680; Peter, bom 
17th Jtme, 1682; Samuel, bom 17th March, 1685; Hannah, bom 21st December, 
1687. All of the above named children are mentioned in their father's will of 
7th May, 1705, proved 3d July, 1706. The occurrence of the name Peter, 
among the children, is suggestive, as also that of Anna. 



198 Israel Angell 

BELLOW 

ROBERTS married SUSANNA, living 1668. 

Robert Bellow* or Bellew (never BaUou), was granted a lot of 
land at Portsmouth, R. I., 5th October, 1643, he "using his trade 
for the benefit of the town." What this trade was is not stated, 
but in 1654, in selling a house-lot in Boston he styles himself 
"tobacco- winder." He had in some way become possessed of a 
house-lot and orchard adjoining, on the east side of the street 
leading from the Castle Tavern, now Elm Street, which may have 
been a part of the estate of Nicholas Willis, who died 1650, without 
heirs in this country. {Suffolk Deeds, vol. i.) This estate he sold 
20th May, 1654, {ibid., 8:118) and his wife Susaima released her 
dower rights. He left a nimcupative will, read to him 2d June, 
1668, in the presence of Samuel King, Jacob Browne, and John 
Cleasby, which he was too weak to sign, by which all his estate 
was left to his wife, two daughters, and son. The will was admitted 
to probate in SuflFolk Coimty, 10 Jtme, 1668. The name of one 
daughter only, Lydia, has been recovered. 

LYDIA% married GEORGE GARDINER. 

She married second WilHam Hawkins, son of WilHam, whose 
will 17th March, 1722-23, does not mention a wife. Her eldest 
son by this marriage, William Hawkins, was the first husband of 
Elizabeth (Arnold) Smith. 

LYDIA3 GARDINER, married JOSEPH SMITH. 

ISRAEL" SMITH, married ELIZABETH ARNOLD, widow of 
William Hawkins. 

NAOMIs SMITH, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

* Robert Bellow was on a visit to Boston, at the time he made his will, 
and the inventory of his effects filed in Suffolk is simply that of what personal 
property he had with him. He named as executors of his will. Deputy Gov- 
ernor William Brenton, Nicholas Easton, and George Gardiner, and Mr. 
William Vaughan, overseer. These were prominent men. Boston records 
are silent regarding his family. Possibly William Bellew of Dover, N. H., 
1642-48, who traded with Boston people, may have been a brother, as in his 
will Robert desires his wife to have a care of "my cousins WiUiam and Henry." 
Maturin Bellou, whose descendants spell the name Ballou, was not connected 
with either Robert or William. 



Genealogical i99 



CLEMENCE 

THOMAS S married ELIZABETH. 

Thomas Clemence* probably accompanied Gregory Dexter and 
Roger Williams at the time of the latter's retiim to Rhode Island, 
with the Charter, in 1644. He was a kinsman, perhaps nephew, 
of Dexter. His name appears on Providence records in 1648, and 
thereafter he took an active part in town affairs. He was a man 
of decided character and good judgment. Deputy, Town Treas- 
urer, and in 1676 was one of the twenty-seven men "who staid 
and went not away." His son Thomas was buried in August of 
that year, "in the flower of his youth," and without doubt was 
the eldest son then living, bom, perhaps, 1650-55. It is possible 
he was twice married. Administration on his estate was graiited 
at the request of his widow Elizabeth, 15th May, 1688, to his son 
Richard. 

RICHARD % married SARAH SMITH, daughter of John and 
Sarah (Whipple) Smith, who died 14th October, 1725, leav- 
ing a will dated nth October that year, in which she nomi- 
nated her "brother" William Smith, executor. 

Richard Clemence was taxed in September, 1687, and was 
married probably about that time. He died nth October, 1723, 
at Providence, leaving a will dated 2d January, 1720-21, proved 
9th December, 1723, naming among his children, "daughter 
Sarah Angell." 

SARAHS married JOHN ANGELL. 

Sarah Clemence was bom nth November, 1688, and is named 
in her mother's will, as well as that of her father. 

STEPHEN 4 ANGELL, married MARTHA OLNEY. 

MARTHAS ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 

*In 1652, Roger Williams, writing from London to Gregory Dexter at 
Providence, inserted on the margin of the letter, "My Love to your Cozen 
Clements & all our Lo : especially our godly Friends." {Providence Town Papers, 
076.) Dexter had been a stationer and printer in London, and was bom 
in Northamptonshire, near Olney, Bucks. His wife's name is given as Sarah 
Fuller. {Brown Papers) . Dexter took a prominent part in affairs at Providence. 
Because of the slight difference in ages it may be considered doubtful if Dexter 
and Clemence were uncle and nephew, the usual rendering of "cousin" in 
those days. The birth of but one child, Elizabeth, who married James Math- 
ewson, is of record. She was bom in February, 1673. Austin mentions as 
his children: Richard, Elizabeth, Thomas, and Content, the last two dying 
unmarried. Sarah, the wife of Richard Clemence, was described as daughter 
of John Smith, "miller," in 1693, when land was laid out to her in her father's 
right. 



200 Israel Angell 

FIELD 
JOHNS married 

John Field was from the neighborhood of St. Albans, Herts., 
of which place his brother James* was a resident. John was one 
of those who signed the Civil Compact of 1638-39, at Providence, 
being at that time an unmarried man. There is no record of his 
marriage, nor is his wife's name mentioned, but from various 
circumstances it would appear that her name was Ruth. There 
is nothing to show that John was a brother or near coimection of 
William or Robert Field, and the evidence of an extensive collec- 
tion of notes from English records seems to prove the contrary. 
John Field did not take a prominent part in public affairs, but in 
1676 was Deputy. His will was presented for probate by his son 
Zachariah, 22d March, 1686, but the executrix not appearing, and 
there being no witnesses, and the legatees having already proceeded 
to a division, it was not admitted to probate and has been lost 
to posterity. His children were Hannah, John, Daniel, Zachariah, 
and Ruth. 

RUTH% married JOHN ANGELL. 

HOPE 3 ANGELL, married LYDIA OLNEY. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH. 

ISRAELS ANGELL. 

* James Field of St. Albans, lathvender, made his wUl 20th September, 
1684, proved 4th January, 1685, by the relict Susan Field. Legacies were 
given to cousin George Wilshire and Rebecca his wife, to cousins John and 
Daniel Pierce. The testator also gave and bequeathed "imto my brother 
John Field one hundred potmds to be paid unto him within twelve months 
after my decease (if he be then Uving) But if my said brother John Field shall 
be then dead my mind and will is and I do then will and bequeath the said 
one htmdred potmds to such of the children of my said brother John Field 
as shall be then Uving." (P. C. C. Lloyd, 3.) Providence Town Paper, 01 103, 
is a fragment, reading "Whereas there was by James Field of St. Albans, 
Herts., who is some time since deceased, a bequest made of £100 the which 
by his will he gave to brother John Field dwelling in Providence in New Eng- 
land, or if dead to be divided among his children. The said John Field is 
deceased and said legacy not paid." James Field married 24th January, 
1640-41, at St. Albans, Susan, daughter of Edmiuid How, and in his will 
mentions Edmund How, Jr., with whom he had entered into an agreement 
concerning a messuage in Tewing, Herts. Edmund How and William Field 
witnessed the will of Walter Blisse of Hemel Hempstead, Herts., inj 1598. 
In 1662 James Field was among those presented at Herts. Sessions as Ana- 
baptists, Independents, and Quakers, who had gathered to bury an old 
man in an orchard, contrary to law. In 1685, James and Zachery Field were 
discharged, having given surety, from custody as disafifected persons. Pos- 
sibly these items may refer to James of St. Albans. In 1657 he took lands in 
St. Stephen's parish, St. Albans (Manorial Cotut Records), and at the time 
of his death held several messuages. Field is an ancient and weU-distributed 
family name in Hertfordshire. The Hemel Hempstead family was connected 
with St. Albans early in the 17th century. The identification by Pierce 
in Genealogy of the Field Family, of the Rhode Island settlers is worthless. 



Genealogical 201 



GARDINER 

GEORGE', married LYDIA BELLOW, daughter of Robert and 
Susanna Bellow, who married (2) 14th June, 1678, William 
Hawkins. 

George Gardiner* was of Newport, R. I., April, 1638. The 
house "formerly George Gardiner's" is mentioned in Portsmouth 
records, October, 1639, and in December of that year he was 
admitted a Freeman at Newport. He was associated with WilUam 
Coddington, and accompanied the latter to Boston and witnessed 
his agreements at Boston, when the latter transferred his house 
and lands there in April, 1639. He was Constable, senior Sergeant, 
and Ensign, and was an active, enterprizing man. His will is 
mentioned by his daughter Mary in 1688, but has suffered the fate 
of most of the early records of Newport. His first wife was Hero- 
dias (Long) Hicks, who held extreme religious views, and stiffered 
for them. He married Lydia Bellow about 1666, and in Robert 
Bellow's will of 2d January, 1668, is called "son-in-law." It is 
probable that George Gardiner was bom about 1610, but his age 
is nowhere mentioned in early records. The identification of 
George Gardiner with another of the same name, married in Lon- 
don in 1630, and with another of the same name baptized 1599- 
1600, is absolutely without authority. He was vmdoubtedly an 
unmarried man at the time he settled in Rhode Island. 

LYDIA % married JOSEPH SMITH. 

ISRAEL^ SMITH, married ELIZABETH ARNOLD. 

NA0MI4 SMITH, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

ISRAELS ANGELL. 

*See for details regarding George Gardiner's family, "The Gardiner s of 
Narragansett," by Caroline E. Robinson, who was apparently tmaware of 
the will of Samuel Gardiner of Swansea, in which his father and brother, 
both named Robert, of Newport, are named, thus eliminating Samuel and 
Robert, given by Austin and others as sons of George. Jeremiah, another as- 
sumed son, is more probably a grandson. 



202 Israel Angell 



OLNE Y 

THOMAS', married MARIE ASHTON, daughter of James 
and Alice Ashton, of St. Albans, Herts., i6th September, 
1629, at St. Albans. 

Thomas Olney', aged 35, and wife Marie, aged 30, sons Thomas, 
aged 3, and "Etenetus," sailed on the ship Planter for New Eng- 
land, April, 1635. He settled in Salem, Mass., prior to March, 
1636, and in December, 1637,* his family was five in number. 
He separated from the Salem church, and removed to Providence 
in the spring of 1638, and there was Town Treasurer, Commis- 
sioner, Assistant, member of Town Council, and otherwise promi- 
nent in town and colony affairs. Will dated 21st March, 1678-79, 
proved 17th October, 1682, names all surviving children. His 
wife was not living at date of will. 

THOMAS % married ELIZABETH MARCH of Newport, R. I., 
3d July, 1660, at Providence, who died prior to 1722. 

Thomas Olney^ was baptized 6th January, 1631-32, at St. 
Albans. His will, dated 20th February, 1721-22, was proved 
9th July, 1722. He was Town Clerk of Providence thirty-three 
years, and for many years one of the most important men in 
Providence Plantations; Deputy, Assistant, member of Town 
Council. Ordained pastor of the First Baptist Church in 1668, 
and in 1669 declined appointment to represent the Colony in 
England. 

THOMAS^ married LYDIA BARNES, daughter of Thomas 
and Prudence (Albie)Barnes of Swanzey, born 26th August, 
1667, living 1722. 

Thomas Olney^ was born 4th May, 1661, at Providence; died 
there ist March, 1717-18, in the lifetime of his father. He was 
Captain of the Militia Company, and Deputy. 

LYDIAS married HOPE ANGELL, son of John and Ruth (Field) 
Angell. 

Lydia Olney was born 30th April, 1688, at Providence. 

OLIVERS ANGELL, married NAOMI SMITH, daughter of 
Israel and Elizabeth (Arnold) Smith. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

* Salem Town Record, division of lands according to number in family. 



Genealogical 203 



OLNE Y 

THOMAS'*, married MARIE ASHTON. 

Thomas Olney was among one of the early adherents of Roger 
Williams at Salem. His son, Nedabiah, baptized at Salem, 27th 
August, 1637, died early, and at Providence he had Stephen and 
James, both of whom died unmarried, Mary, and Lydia. Discov- 
ered Olney, who with Thomas Olney, Sr., and James Olney wit- 
nessed an agreement to build a bridge, 6th February, 1664-65, and 
not otherwise mentioned, was probably another child. {Providence 
Town Papers, 0153, vol. 15:110.) Thomas Olney was one of the 
twelve original members of the First Baptist Church, 1639. 

EPENETUS% married MARY WHIPPLE, daughter of John 
and Sarah Whipple, 9th March, 1665-66, at Providence. 
She was born at Dorchester, Mass., and baptized there 
9th April, 1648. She survived her husband. 

Epenetus Olney was baptized at St. Albans, Herts., 14th 
February, 1633-34; died 3d June, 1698, at Providence, intestate. 
He was Deputy, and member of the Town Council, but not so 
active in public affairs as his brother. 

EPENETUS^ married MARY WILLIAMS, daughter Daniel 
and Rebecca (Rhodes) Williams, who survived her husband. 

Epenetus 3 Olney was bom i8th January, 1674-75, at Provi- 
dence; died 18th September, 1740, leaving a will dated i6th 
December, 1735, with codicil of i8th January, 1739-40, proved 
20th October, 1740. 

MARTHAS married STEPHEN ANGELL, son of John and 
Sarah (Clemence) Angell, 

Martha'' Olney was bom i6th May, 1728, at Providence. 

MARTHAS ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL, son of Oliver 

and Naomi (Smith) Angell. 

Marthas Angell was born 13th Febmary, 1747; died i6th 
March, 1793. 

*The parentage of Thomas Olney is not known; it is evident, however, 
that his ancestors are found among the members of the family of Olney or 
Oney long resident in the vicinity of St. Albans and elsewhere in Hertfordshire. 
(See Herts. Antiquary, 2:376.) 



204 Israel Angell 



PARKHURST 

JOHN', married SARA, living 1611. Probably son of Nicholas 
and grandson of George Parkhurst, and nephew of John, 
Bishop of Norwich. 

John Parkhurst,* of Ipswich, clothier, made his will 29th 
March, 1610, proved 7th June, 161 1. (P. C. C, Wood: 50.) Three 
of his five children were minors. The eldest, George, was made 
executor. 

GEORGE % married PHEBE, who probably died in Ipswich, 
England. 

George Parkhurst,** according to his own statement of age in 
1655, was bom in 1588. He was then petitioning for liberty to 
sell lands belonging to his wife and her children, to raise funds to 
return to England in order to relieve her and certain of her chil- 
dren who had accompanied her to England. This was his second 
wife, Susanna, widow of John Simson, of Watertown. Nine of 
his children, all by his wife Phebe, were baptized in Ipswich, 
England, and at least six of these came to New England. The 
eldest, Phebe, baptized 29th November, 1612, became the wife of 
Thomas Arnold. Another daughter, Mary, married Rev. Thomas 
Carter of Wobum, and these with other children of Phebe, were 
beneficiaries of their maternal aimt, Mrs. Ruth Dalton, widow of 
Rev. Timothy Dalton of Hampton, N. H. 

PHEBE^ married THOMAS ARNOLD. 

ELEAZER'' ARNOLD, married ELEANOR SMITH, daughter 
of John and Elizabeth Smith. 

ELIZABETHS ARNOLD, married ISRAEL SMITH. 

NAOMI^ SMITH, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

ISRAEL 7 ANGELL. 

* John Parkhurst was a " kinsman " of the Bishop of Norwich, of the same 
name, whose will was proved 1576, and whose nephew John was son of his 
brother Nicholas, and whose niece Margaret was wife of Richard Crampton. 
Richard Crampton in his will of 1580 names his brother-in-law Nicholas 
Babbe. "Cousin Nicholas Babbe of Needham Market" was one of the 
supervisors of the will of John Parkhurst. The father of the Bishop was 
George Parkhurst. 

** For all that is known concerning the ancestry of George Parkhurst, see 
N. E. Hist. Gen. Reg., 68:370, for results of investigations by Mr. E. S. Jones. 
See also Register, vol. 27, and Converse and Allied Families, i:io. 



Genealogical 205 



RHODES 

ZACHARIAHS married JOANNA ARNOLD, daughter of Wil- 
liam and Christian (Peak) Arnold. She married (2) nth 
January, 1666-67, Samuel Reape, and was living, a widow, 
nth February, 1692-93. 

Zachariah Rhodes, or as his name usually appears, Zachary 
Roades, was according to a deposition made by him 6th March, 
1656-57, then aged about fifty-four years, which would place 
his birth about 1602-03. No connection has been fotmd between 
him and any other emigrants to New England of this name. 
He is found as a substantial proprietor at Rehoboth in 1643, and 
on the 4th June, 1645, was propounded as a Freeman to the 
General Coiu-t of Plymouth Colony, but apparently never quali- 
fied, though he remained in Rehoboth until 1649 or 1650, and was 
a man of some consequence there. In 1650 he was taxed in 
Providence, and became one of the Pawtuxet proprietors. In 
1655 WilUams speaks of him as a Baptist, and active in affairs. 
He became Commissioner, Constable, Deputy, Town Treasurer, 
and member of Town Council. In 1665, he was present at the 
Court at Boston which determined the charge against certain 
Baptists in Charlestown, and within six months, prior to loth 
April, 1666, was drowned off the Pawtuxet shore. His will, dated 
28th April, 1662, recorded 29th May, 1666, names his children, 
all of whom were minors. His widow, to better settle his estate, 
made her will 9th November, 1666, and had it enrolled 28th Janu- 
ary, 1667-68, she having married again. 

REBECCA% married DANIEL WILLIAMS. 

Rebecca Rhodes died in 1727. She married (l) 3d February 
1671-72, Nicholas Power; (2) 7th December, 1676, Daniel WilUams. 

MARY3 WILLIAMS, married EPENETUS OLNEY. 

MARTHA^ OLNEY, married STEPHEN ANGELL. 

MARTHAS ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 



2o6 Israel Angell 



SMITH 

JOHN',* married ALICE, who was living in September, 1652, 
at Providence. 

In 1646 the town granted him "the value, whereon his house 
stands in case he set up a mill."** He died soon after this, for in 
1649 there is an agreement by which his widow Alice and his son 
John should maintain the mill and grind the com of the inhabi- 
tants, and in -consideration of this should have 150 acres formerly 
granted Smith, and that no other mill should be erected. 

JOHN% married SARAH WHIPPLE, daughter of John and 
Sarah Whipple, baptized 12th August, 1641, at Dorchester, 
Mass., died prior to 1709, and after 1687. 

JOSEPH^ married LYDIA GARDINER daughter of George 
and Lydia (Bellow) Gardiner, 4th April, 1689. She died 

1723- 

Joseph Smith in the partition of his father's lands in 1709, is 
described as son of "John Smith, miller." He made his will 26th 
October, 1742, and named his daughter-in-law, Elizabeth, "widow 
of his deceased son Israel." He died 13th January, 1749-50, and 
his will was proved 17th March following. 

ISRAELS married ELIZABETH ARNOLD, daughter of Eleazer 
and Eleanor (Smith***) Arnold, widow of William Hawkins, 
Jr., who had died 8th October, 171 2. She married Israel 
Smith, 3d June, 1718, and died nth July, 1758. Her will 
of 1st July, 1758, proved 17th July, names her daughter 
Naomi Angell. 

Israel Smith was bom 13th January, 1689-90, at Providence, 
and died there 20th January, 1726-27. 

NAOMis, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

* There were several of this name in Massachusetts early, and a John 
Smith in Dorchester at a later period than the arrival of the "miUer" at 
Providence. It is unlikely he was the Freeman of 1632. There is no record of 
the direction which WilHams's dislike to the miller took, unless it was objec- 
tion to his signing the compact and combination, and perhaps preventing 
his taking any part in town affairs until after March, 1645, and even then he 
was not enfranchised, though apparently admitted a proprietor. In February, 
1650-1, Williams refers to him as "our dead friend, John Smith." 

** This same phrase occurs in the will of his son John, but "value " there is 
spelled "valley." 

*** Granddaughter of John Smith, "the mason," q. v. 



Genealogical 207 

SMITH 

JOHNS married ALICE. 

John Smith, "the miller," so called to distinguish him from 
John Smith, "the mason," and "Jamaica John Smith," was con- 
temporary also with John Smith of Warwick, John Smith of 
Newport, and John Smith of Prudence Island. In September, 
1635, the General Court of Massachusetts ordered that John 
Smith should be sent out of the jurisdiction within six weeks, 
"for divers dangerous opinions which he holdeth." He was proba- 
bly the John Smith, one of the proprietors of the Plough Patent of 
1630, who arrived in Boston in July. 1631, and whose allotment at 
Mt. WoUaston passed to Rev. John Wilson prior to September, 
1636.* Roger Williams wrote in 1677, concerning his companions 
in the first settlement at Providence, that he "consented to John 
Smith, Miller, at Dorchester (banished also) to go with me," and 
in 1638, wrote to Governor Winthrop that "one of the first grounds of 
my dislike of John Smith the miller, and especially of his wife," 
was their blaming the actions of the Massachusetts magistrates. 

JOHNS married SARAH WHIPPLE. 

John Smith continued the mill until his death in 1682, and it 
was in turn continued by his son of the same name. At the 
destruction of the town by the Indians in 1676, John Smith was 
town clerk, and had in his custody the town records, and it is 
said secured their safety by throwing them into the mill pond, when 
the mill, and the miller's house over it, was burned. Williams 
alludes to the merciful preservation of the records from "fire and 
water." His wiU dated, 22d February, 1681-82, proved 2d June, 
1682, gave to unmarried daughter Sarah, 40 acres, and in 1709 
division of lands was made among the sons. John Smith was 
Deputy 1666-72. 

SARAHS married RICHARD CLEMENCE. 
SARAH4 CLEMENCE, married JOHN ANGELL. 
STEPHENS ANGELL, married MARTHA OLNEY. 

MARTHA^ ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 

* A letter of March 163 1-2, from the members of the Company in London 
to Smith and others in New England names " Ann " wife of John Smith and 
his daughter as preparing to sail with Richard Dummer on the Whale. They 
did so, arriving early in 1632. On the same ship came John, minor son of 
Francis Smith, miller, who was indentured to Rev. John Wilson after his ar- 
rival here. Wilson came on the same ship. See Mass. Hist. Soc. Col. No. 
7:92, and The Genealogist, N. S. 19:275. 



2o8 Israel Angell 



SMITH 
JOHNS married 

John Smith, called the "mason," to distinguish him from others 
of the name, was in Providence as early as 1654, when he sold 
Samuel Comstock his house and home lot. He was of Warwick 
in 1657, and was then sued at law by John Smith of Warwick.* 
He returned to Providence and married Aim, widow of Samuel 
Comstock, and died prior to the 9th March, 1659-60. 

JOHN% married ELIZABETH, who was living in 1706, when 
her sons-in-law Eleazer Arnold and Thomas Hopkins agreed 
to care for her. 

John Smith, bom prior to 1645, died prior to 4th April, 1688, 
when his will was presented. He was also described as "John 
Smith, mason." 

ELEANORS married ELEAZER ARNOLD.** 

ELIZABETH" ARNOLD, married ISRAEL SMITH. 

NAOMIs SMITH, married OLIVER ANGELL. 

ISRAEL^ ANGELL. 

* John Smith "of Warwick" was a merchant, and settled there about 1646. 
He was later Governor. He appears to be identical with John Smith, of Boston, 
gentleman, 1642, who came from Ireland where he had suffered losses at the 
hands of the rebels. His wife preceded him, coming in 1640. He has been 
assumed to be that "Mr. John Smith" one of the seven signers of the "Remon- 
strance and Humble Petition" addressed to the General Court 6 of May, 1646, 
which Robert Child planned to send to England, and which resulted in the Col- 
ony sending Edward Winslow thither. See New England Salamander Discovered. 
Smith is described as one "who formerly lived two or three years in Boston but 
before this remonstrance himself and wife were removed to Rhode Island." 
He resisted the officers sent to seize the papers of one of the conspirators, and 
with others was placed under bonds, and was fined — but the fine was never col- 
lected. The incident seems rather one more likely to have been participated in 
by John the miller than he of Warwick, unless the reference to Rhode Island is 
to be taken literally, for the Warwick man probably removed from Boston to the 
island so named. 

** Elizabeth, sister of Eleazer Arnold, married 22d November, 1678, Samuel 
Comstock, son of Samuel and Ann Comstock. 



Genealogical 209 



WILLIAMS 

JAMES', married ALICE PEMBERTON, daughter of Robert* 
and Katharine Pemberton, of St. Albans, Hertfordshire, 
baptized i8th February, 1564; will dated ist August, 1634, 
proved 26th January following. She was of St. Sepulchres 
without Newgate, London. 

James Williams,** citizen and merchant tailor of London, made 
his will 7th September, 1620; proved 19th November, 1621. He 
was admitted to the Company of Merchant Taylors, 1587, having 
served his apprenticeship with Nicholas Treswell. 

ROGER % married MARY BARNARD 

Roger Williams was a minor i6th March, 1622-23.,*** and was 
therefore bom later than 1603, and as he was admitted a scholar 

*Robert Pemberton was buried at St. Albans, i6th July, 1578. His wife 
Catherine was sister to Roger Stokes of St. Albans, who died in 1573. His 
son Roger was godfather to Roger Williams, and named the latter in his will 
of 13th November, 1624, proved 5th December, 1627. Roger's son, Robert, 
(cousin of Roger Williams) married Susan, daughter of Roger Glover, and sister 
to Rev. Jose Glover, one of the most important of the early emigrants to New 
England. The widow of Jose Glover married Rev. Henry Dunster, President of 
Harvard College, 1 640-1 654. The two eldest daughters of Jose Glover married 
sons, Adam and Deane, of Gov. John Winthrop and the youngest daughter mar- 
ried Capt. John Appleton. John Pemberton, another son of Roger, married 
Catherine Angell, daughter of William Angell of London, who, however, it has 
not been found possible to connect with Thomas Angell of Providence, the com- 
panion of Roger Williams. Ralph Pemberton, (1625-1697) another son, 
mayor of St. Albans, died 1644, was father of Sir Francis Pemberton, Lord 
Chief Justice, 1 681 -1683. The Pembertons were an armorial family, and a 
branch of the Pemberton family of Cheshire. For wills of Roger Pemberton, 
James and Alice Williams, and other details concerning these families, see 
Waters' Gleanings, pp. 327, et seq., and various items printed by G. Andrews 
Moriarty, Jr. 

**James Williams was a well-to-do merchant in London. He was probably 
bom as early as 1560, if not earlier. There was an armorial family of the name 
of Treswell having its origin in St. Albans, and Robert Treswell alias Baker, 
who died 1586, was father of Nicholas, and of Ralph of London, whose son 
Robert was Somerset Herald of Arms. 

*** Bond of Alice Williams of London, who was bound for certain lega- 
cies payable to Roger and Robert Williams, sons of James. {Orphans' Recogniz- 
ances, 1590-1633.) 
14 



210 Israel Angell 

at Sutton Hospital, now Charter-House, School 1621, which did 
not admit after the age of fourteen, it would appear he was bom 
in 1606 or 1607. He had passed his twenty-fifth birthday in 1632, 
as his letter to Winthrop proves. He was admitted a pensioner 
(one who paid his own commons) at Pembroke College, Cambridge, 
1625, and received an "exhibition" from Charter House, which was 
withdrawn in 1629, he having withdrawn from the University. He 
was A. B., 1627, and soon was a member of the household of Sir 
William Masham, as chaplain, at Otes, High Laver, Essex. He mar- 
ried (probably in the summer of 1630) Mary Barnard,* prior to ist 
December, 1630 when he sailed for New England. Although he 
sailed on the Lyon from Bristol, there is no mention of the ship 's 
clearance in the "Port Books." He was at Salem in 1631, of Ply- 
mouth the two following years, and again at Salem until he fled, in 
Januar>% 1635-36, to what became Providence, being accompanied 
from Salem by Thomas Angell, and adding to his company John 
Smith, the miller, Francis Wickes, and William Harris, who were 
soon joined by others. He visted England in 1643, and with his 
brother Sydrach,** attempted to recover from the creditors of Robert 
Williams, a younger brother, who had joined Roger in Rhode Island, 
property which had been charged with certain payments to them 
by their mother's will. He returned to Rhode Island in 1644, with a 
charter for the colony. He again visited England in 165 1 and re- 
mained until 1654. He was living in January, but deceased before 
the 25th April, 1683, at which time his wife was also deceased. 

* This marriage is established by mention in a letter written by Lady 
Elizabeth Masham prior to the event. See Collections R. I. Hist. Soc, vol. 
ii., 1898. Mary (Barnard) Williams had a brother living in New England in 
1649 who was apparently in England in 1666. It is likely that this was Wil- 
liam Barnard of Charlestown, 1639-1651, whose wife was Alice. He drew a 
bill of exchange at Charlestown, 8th September, 1640, on his " very loving 
cousin, Mr. Thomas Free, mercht- at his warehouse at the George in Lum- 
bard streate, London." Lechford's Note-Book, p. 175. James Barnard and 
Alice Free were married at Great Berkhamstead, loth November, 1597, and had 
a daughter baptized there. Thomas Barnard of Bishop's Stortford, is probably 
identical with the man of the same name who was steward of the estate of 
Sir Francis Barrington, whose wife was aunt to Oliver Cromwell, and whose 
daughter was wife of Sir William Masham. That he was father of Mary 
(Barnard) Williams, perhaps brother or other near relative of James Barnard 
who married Alice Free, is not proved. Thomas Barnard, the elder, of Stort- 
ford, scrivener, was aged 62 years in October, 1 631, and had lived in Stortford 
since his birth. Depositions, Essex and Herts, 1630-1633. 

** Sydrach Williams was bom in 1594; his estate was administered 1647. He 
married 1621 Anne, widow of Francis Pinner of London and daughter of Thomas 
Tyler. Her sister Hester married Rice Williams, a London mercer. Roger Wil- 
liams of Virginia, whose will was proved 6 January, 1677, probably a son of Sy- 
drach, left sons Roger and Shadrach. Robert, youngest son of James, appears 
to have been bom in 1609 or 1610. He was apprenticed to his brother Sydrach 
in 1626 and admitted to the Company of Merchant Tailors 1634. See Waters' 
Extracts from Marriage Licenses granted by Bishop of London. 



^ 



Genealogical 211 

DANIEL^ married REBECCA RHODES, daughter of Zacha- 
riah and Joan (Arnold) Rhodes, whose will of 12th June, 
1725, was proved ist January, 1727-28. Married 7th 
December, 1676, as Rebecca Power, widow of Nicholas, 
whom she married 3d February, 1671-72.* 

Daniel Williams was bom in February, 1642, at Providence, 
and died 14th May, 1712. 

MARY4, married EPENETUS OLNEY. 

Mary Williams is called "sister" by Peleg Williams in a deed 
to Epenetus Olney, 1716. She was living in 1740. 

MARTHAS OLNEY, married STEPHEN ANGELL. 

MARTHA^ ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 

* Nicholas Power was killed 19th December, 1675, at the Swamp Fight. 
He left two sons, Hope, died young, and Nicholas. 



212 Israel Angell 



WHIPPLE 

JOHNS married SARAH. 

John Whipple was bom about 1616. In October, 1632, he 
was a member of the family of Israel Stoughton of Dorchester, 
to whom he was apprenticed. The town granted him land in 1638, 
and soon after this he married, his eldest child being baptized 
9th January, 1641, at Dorchester, where he remained tmtil his 
removal to Providence, 1659. His wife was admitted to Dorchester 
church 29th October, 1641, but he does not appear to have been 
a church member. He was seven times Deputy, 1666-77, and was 
one of those "who staid and went not away" during the Indian 
War. His will, dated 8th May, 1682, proved 27th May, 1685, 
names his surviving children. He died i6th May, 1685. 

SARAHS married JOHN SMITH. 

Sarah Whipple was baptized at Dorchester, 12th August, 1641. 
Mary Whipple, sister of Sarah, married Epenetus Ohiey. 

SARAH^ SMITH, married RICHARD CLEMENCE. 

SARAH'' CLEMENCE, married JOHN ANGELL. 

STEPHENS ANGELL, married MARTHA OLNEY. 

MARTHA^ ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 



I 



Genealogical 213 



WHIPPLE 

JOHNS married SARAH. 

No connection has been found between John Whipple of Dor- 
chester and Providence and Mathew and John Whipple of Ipswich, 
Mass. Dorchester church records note that Sarah, daughter of 
John Whipple, married "Mr. Smith, Providence." 

MARYS married EPENETUS OLNEY 

Mary Whipple was baptized at Dorchester, gth April, 1648; 
married 9th March, 1665-66, at Providence. 

EPENETUS^ OLNEY, married MARY WILLIAMS. 

MARTHA^ OLNEY, married STEPHEN ANGELL 

MARTHAS ANGELL, married ISRAEL ANGELL. 



[Note: The information here presented pertaining to the 
ancestry of Colonel Israel and Martha Angell, when not credited 
to other sources, or found in Austin's Genealogical Dictionary of 
Rhode Island, is the result of investigation carried on in both old 
and New England for the purposes of this book by Mr. Eben 
Putnam.] 



Appendix 



215 



APPENDIX I 

LETTERS OF COLONEL ANGELL 

Concerning the lands set off for the Regiment. 

Johnston 9th. April 1781 
My dear friend : 

This will be handed you by Cap* C. Olney or Cap* Allen who 
will Show you a Coppy of the report given in by the Committee 
for apprizing the Confiscated lands Set off to the Officers and 
Soldiers for their Services and will allso Acquaint you how far it 
has mett the Approbation of those present. Shall Set off to- 
morrow to meet Cap* Tew in order to rent out the two farms 
Sett off to my Reg* as it is no way likely they Can be Sold and 
Enter'd upon this Spring, Could wish that Cap* Olney and your 
Self might Call all the Officers present with you together, and 
Consult them upon the matter, as it is thought that the lands 
are prized higher than they Can Possibly be Sold for at present, 
which may make it Necessary for you to give me Some further 
Instructions relative to the matter, which advice we Shall be 
govern'd by, and take Every Step to give Satisfaction to our 
Constitution Shall Refer you to Cap*^ Olney and Allen, for what 
news there is here. Please to give my Compliments to all the 
Officers, and believe me to be 

Your friend and Humble Serv* 
Israel Angell 

Johnston 1 8th April 1781 
To Cap* Thomas Hughes 
My Dear friend : 

Since my last of the Ninth instant to Cap* Hughes, have ben 
to Connanicutt with Cap* Tew to lett the farms Set off to my 
Regiment, as there was not the least probability of Selling 
them this Spring, the North farm we have lett, the other was 
not let when I left Newport, the man who it is Expected will 
hire it was Gone to Providence, and did not Return before I 
Came away. Cap* Tew remained behinde to See him, and I 
am to meet him in Providence tomorrow, the land is good, and 

217 



2i8 Letters 

I am of your Opinion that part of the Hutchinson farm is as 
good land as the North farm, or any on the Island. We made 
the Strictest Enquiry of the Inhabitants on the Island what 
Such lands formerly Sold for pr Acre, and find that the Common 

price before the war was from 20 to 25 Dollars p'' Acre 

Have Seen none that is of Opinion we ought to have given more 
than 35 Dollars p^'Acre for the best of it and what Reason those 
Gentlemen Can give for prizing it as they have is best known 
to themselves. I was inform 'd on the Island that the Hutchin- 
son farm had been Offer'd to M^ John Jencks for twenty Dollars 
pr Acre before the war, but he refused to Give that for it & Now 
every Building fence & Stick of wood is burnt off, it Seems he 
values it at Near Double that Sum Could wish to know the 
Opinion of the Gentlemen Officers Respecting the matter as 
Soon as Convenient, Should think it Advisable at this time, 
not to let the Soldiers know that the lands was prized higher 
than they Could be Sold for, that is if the Officers intend to 
make Application for Redress. 

I am Sir Yours, 
I. Angell 
Cap* C. Olney 

to give my Compliments to Col. Greene and Officers 



Johnston 5^^- Sept. 1782 
Gentlemen': 

We are inform'd by majF Olney, and a letter Rec.^^ yesterday 
from Col? Olney Dated 15**^ July, that you Disaprove of our set- 
ting off aney more land to aney person who may have purchased 
Certificates, had we received the letter. Should have Strictly 
Comply'd with the Contents therein till further orders, but hav- 
ing wrote two or three letters on the Subject and Receiving no 
answer; and being daily Call'd upon was induced to take the 
matter up and do what we thought was the best for both Officers 
and Soldiers, however we may have mised the marke but the 
matter is justly Stated to you hope you will think more favourable 
of our proceedings, being Sure you Cannot have reason to 
think but that we Should Endeavour to act for the best, as we 
are Equaly Concern 'd with you in Service, (or those who Still 
holde their rights.) and mean to Sink or Swim with you, You was 
of opinion that making more Divisions would Operate Greatly 
against us. but upon duly Considering every Circumstance we 
are of a different Opinion for the following reasons, i^* because 

' This letter was addressed to "Jeremiah Olney, Esqr, at Head Quarters," 
and is endorsed "Favoured by Maj^ Olney, I. A." 



Appendix I 219 

it is certain there will be a large Ballance in favour of the 
Deserters, and old Countrymen who have decesed without Heir, 
and when every man is paid his demands the Remaining part will 
of Cours fall among us. but Should it all be held in Common 
Stock till it was all Sold together, those Monopolizers would 
Come in for an equal Shair of the [Surplusage. ?] Secondly, the 
land we have Set off to Martin he is not to take posession of untill 
the whole is Sold or Set off to the Officers, but to remain in com- 
mon Stock and rented together, now in Case the Officers Chuse 
to have the land Sold, it will obHge Martin to help us to a market 
for it. for his own Advantage, the land Set of to [Perce.''] he is not 
to have his deed untill he pay, the whole of the money, or the 
amount in Certificates, which will give both Officers and Soldiers 
that has a mind to Sell an Opportunity of getting nearer the value 
of their Money, as his money Advanced will lie dead untill he is 
able to get his Deed. Thirdly. Should there be no more Divi- 
sions or Sails of the land it would finily Stop the Sail of the Certi- 
ficates, which might be Attended with bad Consequences, now 
they have Got in Such a way of Selling, for the Soldier would 
Imeadetly Say that the Officers were agoing to keep the lands 
themselves and Cheat them out of their Rights. I Majr Olney 
& Cap* Tew are all of Opinion that Could the Officers all Agree 
it would be best to Reserve Some part to our Selves, and Divide 
the Remaining part into Divisions and pay of the Regf as Soon 
as possible, and as we have got no Deed of the point farm. Shall 
push the matter at the next Session of Assembly with all our 
force, and insist upon a Deed, money or other lands in lieu there- 
of, and it is our Opinnion that it will be very nesessary for Majr 
Olney to be present, if he Can possebly be Spaird, if not, to Send 
on a Petition which we will push forward to the utmost of our 
power, and make no Scruple of Carrying our point, I have laid 
in with several of the hous, who all agree with me that it is a 
Matter which ought to be done, as Majr Olney is waeting Shall 
Conclude with refering you and the Gentlemen to him for every 
Minute Scircumstance respecting matters here, and beg Leave 
to Subscribe my Self your 

Sincear Friend and Humble Serv*, 

Israel Angell 
In Behalf of my 
Self and Cap* Tew 
The Gentlemen officers of the 
R. I. Regiment 



} 



220 Letters 

Papers respecting the Pension granted to Colonel Angell. 

Providence June i6*^ 1828 
Sir, 

Inclosed is my application for the benefit of the Act entitled 
"An Act for the relief of certain surviving Officers and 'Soldiers 
of the Army of the Revolution,'" unaccompanied however by any 
military Commission: — This deficiency has been occasioned by 
the following circumstance : When application was made by me to 
the Department of War for the benefit of the Act of y^ March 
1 81 8, in compliance with the requisition of that Department, I 
forwarded thereto all my Commissions to the number of three or 
four, none of which have since been returned to me, and are now 
probably remaining with my application and the Evidence of my 
claim in that office — 

I am, Sir, respectfully, 
your obedient Servant 

Israel Angell 

Honourable Richard Rush 

P. S. I beg that it may not be considered either intrusive or 
impertinent in me to state that I am now in the eighty eight year 
of my age. — 

Israel Angell 



For the purpose of obtaining the benefits of an Act entitled 
"An Act for the relief of certain surviving officers, and Soldiers 
of the Army of the Revolution," approved on the 15*^ of May 
1828, — I Israel Angell of Smithfield in the County of Providence 
in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, do 
hereby declare, that I was an Officer in the Continental Line of 
the Army of the Revolution and served as such to the time when 
the arrangement of the Army provided by the resolves of 
Congress of the yA and 21^* of October, 1780 was carried into 
effect and that I was reduced under that arrangement, at which 
period I was Colonel in the second Regiment of the Rhode Island 
Line. — And I also declare that I afterwards received Certificate 
(commonly called Commutation Certificates,) for a sum equal 
to the amount of five years full pay: which sum was offered by 
the resolve of Congress of the 22?^ of March 1783, — instead of 
the half pay for life to which I was entitled under the resolve 
of the 2 1 St of October 1780 — ■ 

And I do further declare that I have received of the United 
States, as a Pensioner since the 3'''^ day of March 1826, the sum 



Appendix I 221 

of Four hundred & eighty dollars, paid to me by the Agent for 
paying Pensions in the State of Rhode Island — 

Witness my hand this Sixteenth — day of June in the year one 
thousand eight hundred and twenty eight. — 

Israel Angell 



No of orig Pay 145 

Treasury Department 
9 July 1828. 

Israel Angell — of Smithfield in the County of Providence in 
the State of Rhode Island has applied to the Secretary of the 
Treasury for the benefits of the act, entitled "An Act for the 
relief of certain surviving officers and soldiers of the army of 
the Revolution," approved on the 15th of May, 1828. He 
states that he was an officer on the Continental line, and served 
as such to the time when the arrangement of the Army provided 
by the resolves of Congress of the 3'"^ and 21?* of October 1780, 
was carried into effect under which he was reduced, at which 
period he as a Colonel in the Second regiment of the Rhode 
Island line; and that he received commutation certificates for 
the five years full pay granted by the resolve of 22 March, 1783; 
and, further, that he has received as a pensioner since the 3d of 
March, 1826, Sum of four hundred and eighty — dollars, paid to 
him by the agent in the State of Rhode Island. 

The Third Auditor is requested to report how far these several 
statements are corroborated by the records in his office. 

By order of the Secretary, 

A. Dickins 



Treasury Department, 
Third Auditor's Office, 

iQth July 1828 

It appears by the records in this office, that final settlement 
certificates have been issued for the commutation of five years 
full pay to Israel Angell — Colonel in the Rhode Island line, 
amounting to Four Thousand, five Hundred dollars. 

It further appears that Israel Angell — is now on the pension 
list of the Rhode Island agency, and has been since the 3f<^ March 
1826 at the rate of Twenty Dollars per month. — 

Peter Hagner Aud. 



222 Letters 

Camp Valley Forge Febry 19th 1778. 
Sir 

These may certify that Lt. Samuel Hicks of Colo Greenes 

Reg* is not indebted to the Reg* nor Continent 

I am Sir your most obedient, 

and most Humble Serv* 
To His Excellency 1 Israel Angell Colo. 

General Washington / 

Camp Valley Forge March 8^^ 1778 
Sir 

Whereas Lt Joseph Whitmarsh of Colo Greens Regt. has 
apply 'd to me for a Recommendation for a discharge from the 
Service, for the following reasons, ist as the Settlement of the 
Rank in the Regt. now stands, seems agreeable to the Field 
officers, and he would by no means wish to create any uneasiness 
in the Reg* as it would Destroy the end and design of his Enter- 
ing the Service. 24 under his present Situation he cannot be 
easy, and the Removal of the cause would be very Disagreable 
to many of the Officers in the Reg* by which means it would 
make his case unhappy, for these Reasons he choses to retire 
from the Servis [although Lt. Whitmarsh is a good officer] 
Considering the above Circumstances Shall Recommend him to 
your Honour for a discharge, and give it as my opinion he ought 
to have an Honourable one. 

I am Sir your most ob* Humble Serv* 

Israel Angell Col. 

To Genl. Varnum 



Camp (Paramies) July 13*^ 1778 — 
Ensign Hawkins of my Regiment being dissatisfied in re- 
maining in the Service; as his Wages are not sufficient to main- 
tain him in the Character he at present sustains, and he not 
being in Debt to the Publick I do recommend him to Your 
Excellency for a Discharge. 

Israel Angell Col. 

His Excellency Genl. Washington 



APPENDIX II 

EXTRACTS FROM THE ORDERLY BOOK KEPT IN COLONEL 
ANGELL's REGIMENT 

The book from which have been taken the entries dated 1777 and 1778 
was kept by Captain William Allen. 

The entries of later date are from three books in possession of Mr. H. I. 
Angell of Chester, N. J., a descendant of Colonel Angell. These books were 
kept by the regimental adjutant for the time being, who rarely, in making his 
entries, took pains to reproduce the construction and spelling of the original 
order. Many errors occur in the spelling of names, and the writing in many 
cases is almost illegible. As the orders were frequently copied into the books 
from the reading of the original by another, the phonetic spelling is a guide 
to the pronunciation of names and words at that time, and also illustrates the 
limited vocabulary of the younger officers who had not enjoyed much school- 
ing — shown by attempts to reproduce unfamihar words. 

Of the three books in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell one has been pre- 
sented in two sections, viz., II and IV. The first part of this book was 
devoted to the orders of General Gates, of Washington, and Resolves of Con- 
gress; the latter part to a continuation of the orders given in the book, from 
which extracts are printed in section III. 



The regimental orders of Colonel Angell are contained in the 
Orderly book of Captain William Allen, from the time he joined 
his regiment in August, to September 25th, 1777. The Orderly- 
book commences with the orders for April 25, 1777, at the time 
Lieutenant Colonel Olney was in command of the detachment, 
constantly being augmented by recruits sent on from Rhode 
Island, where Colonel Angell then was. The regiment joined Gen- 
eral Putnam's command in the Highlands in July, and marched 
to join the main army under Washington in late September. 

As there are many items of interest in this Orderly book for 
the period prior to Colonel Angell's resuming command, a daily 

223 



224 Orderly Book 

abstract is here presented, in which every name is mentioned 
which is found in the Orders, and some of the Orders are printed 
in full. 

From the time when the regiment came under the command of 
General Putnam, the General Orders with few exceptions cor- 
respond with those printed by Mr. Worthington C. Ford in 
1893, under the title, "General Orders issued by Major-General 
Israel Putnam, when in command of the Highlands, in the summer 
and fall of 1777." Mr. Ford used the orderly books of Major 
Richard Piatt, of McDougall's brigade, and Sergeant Daniel 
Ware of a Connecticutt regiment. Piatt's book began with 
June I, 1777, and Ware's on July 19th. Some slight differences 
between the two books were noted by Mr. Ford. Similar differ- 
ences are found in Allen's book, usually where he differs from 
Ware, he agrees with Piatt. 

Both Piatt and Ware omit the orders of General Putnam on a 
few days in which they appear in Allen's copy, hence these orders 
are given for those days, and a few omissions which appear to be 
of consequence are also given. 

Otherwise the extracts from Allen's book, are confined to 
Colonel Angell's orders, and Brigade orders of General Varnum, 
when of interest. Details for guard and fatigue duty are omitted. 

The Orderly book of Captain Allen is in the possession of 
Colonel George L. Shepley of Providence, who courteously per- 
mitted a copy to be made. 

Head Quarters Morristown April 25*^^ 1777 

Colo^ & commanding officers of corps must Cause their Regi- 
ments paymasters to make up their pay Abstracts to the first of 
this month and order them to attend at the pay master Genel^ 
for the Money. 

proper attention to the Gen! Orders of this Neature on the 
21^* of last month would not only Have Removed the Complaint 
of the Soldiers for want of their money so frequently made to 
the Commander in Chife but would have Saved them much 
Truble in Setling their Accounts 

the most puctual Obediance must be paid to their Orders no 
Excuse for Delay Can or will be admitted. 

They are also Directed to Desire the Surgeons to make a 
return of the Medicines & Instruments in their posession to 
the Director General. 



Appendix II 225 

At Hed Quarters on Monday Next the adjutent Gen. will 
Transmit Copies of those Orders Immediately to All those 
Gentlemen Concerned. 

The officer of the Day in Visiting the guards is to be particu- 
larly attentive to See that the guard houses Are Cleaned & in 
Good Order particularly the provist guard which is to be Cleaned 
Every Day the Rooms where the prisoners are Confined as 
well as the Guard Rooms the officers' Releiving 

Hed Quarter Morristown 28*** April 1777 

Every corps must Immediately put their arms in the best 
firing Order & be Compleated with ammunition The Command- 
ing officers of corps will see this order complied with as they 
will be answerable for any neglect thereof 

The Quarter Master Gen! to Furnish each corps with Tents 
& proper [conveniences ?] to carry them that they may be ready 
upon the Shortest Notis for Removing. 

The Gen^ laments the necessity he is Laid under Respecting 
his orders by wich the officers was forbid riding about Country 
thereby absenting themselves from their Duty if any sudden 

call for officers or defensive Should be maid during their 

absent, they will asuridly be Brought to Severe account for 
their Conduct. 

[Abstract] 

[Morristown, May i, 1777. Regimental Court Martial. Captain 
Flagg, president, Captain Olney, Lieutenants Arnold and Sayles, 
Ensign Dexter, to try Robert Piper, William Thomas, Oliver 
Washburn, John (Scharrnes), Anthony Foss, Joseph White, 
James Hobb, Frederick Kerker. All but the last two for either 
being drunk and leaving their posts, of for sleeping when on 
sentry duty, were found guilty. Hobb and Kerker acquitted. 
John Gibson of the light horse, witness against Thomas, who had 
also stabbed a horse in the public stable. Punishment was 
whipping to be administered on the regimental parade. 

G. O. Morristown, May 3. Major Painter appointed Superin- 
tendent of Artificers and works, in and about Morristown. 
Mr. Machies' stable mentioned. Regimental CM., Captain 
Olney, president. Captain Allen, Lieutenants Arnol, Brown, 
Ensign Dexter, to try David Hartly, James King, Pat Durphe, 
who pled guilty of absence from roll call and quarters. To ride 
the wooden horse twenty minutes, with hands tied behind them, 
and two fire-locks tied to each man's feet. Edward Everson, 
late corporal in Captain C. Olney's company, restored to his 
grade.] 



226 Orderly Book 

Morristown 4*^ May 1777 
Regm^ Orders 

Tis with great Consern the Lt Colo is informed that many of 
the Soldiers in the Detachtment are not only Dirty but Lowzy 
Which he is Fully Sencible arrises from No other Cause than 
that of Laziness & want of Frequently Shifting their Linen & 
as the Soldiers are at present well Clad the Lieut Colo most 
Earnestly Desires the Captains to Cause their orderly Sarj*^ to 
Examon their Respective Com[mands?] carefully & them that 
are found Dirty & Lowzey to be Immediately ordered to Clean 
& Clense them Selvs from their Shamefull Situation upon pen- 
alty of being Severily punished for Disobedince of orders, While 
the Lieut Colo. Justly Complains of those who through Neglect 
make Such a Shameful appearance he Cannot but Return his 
thanks to those who In obedience to orders keep them Selvs 
Clean and neat and he asures them So long as Obedience to 
orders marks their Conduct they shall ever merit his attention: 
on the other hand he is Determined to punish with Severity all 
those who willfully offend against Reason order & Discipline. 

Three orderly Serj* are to attend for all orders: the adjutant 
will Furnish them with the orderly book or Copyes thereof 
from this order to be Closly attended too as Each Company 
ought to have the Orders Completed 

A Regim^ Court Martial held at Morristown this 4*^ Day of 
may 1 777 by Order of Lt Colo Olney . Capt W™ Allin President 
Lieut Arnold ] u ^ \ Lieut Brown 

Lt Sayles {"members] g^^„ j^^^^^^ 

The Court being Duly Sworn proceeded to the trial of Moses 
Stevens Serj't in Capt. Flaggs Comp. Charged of getting Drunk 
& Disobeying of orders the Serjant he pleaded Guilty of Getting 
Drunk But Denies being Guilty of Disobeying of orders Serjt 
Dexter on Oath Saith that Sarj* Stevens said in his hearing that 
he had Recivd orders from Lieut Arnold to Carry his chest to 
his Quaters The Chest then Laid in the highway in the beat of 
the Waggons Serj't Dexter further Saith that Serj'* Stevans 
went of & left the Chest & Did not Return untill brought by a 
file of men. 

Lt. Stevens is found guilty of a Breach of the latter part of 
the 5*^ Artical of the 2^ Section of the article of War the Court 
in [Coole?] Delibration Decree that Sarjt Stevens be Reduced 
to a private Continue to Do Duty as Such. 

Mather Bryant of Capt Aliens Company charged with Ab- 
senting himself from the fatigue party half a day & getting 
Drunk Pleads Guilty: the Court therefore Orded him to Ride 
the Woden horse twenty minutes with six firelocks Lashed to 
his feet 



Appendix II 227 

The Court perceeded to the Tryal of Noyls^ Confind for 
Using Bad & very Disrespectfull Language Against his officers & 
wished one half of them in hell Said Noils plead guilty & Beggs 
the mercy of the Court : the Court finding the prisoner Punishable 
agreeable to the ^^^ artical & the i8 Section of the Artical of 
War; the Court Considering the Neature of the offence Do 
order him to Recive Fifty Stripes on his Naked back. 

The Court preceeded to the tryal of Wm Thomas a Soldier 
in Capt [Cog^.'] Olneys Comp Confined for Getting Drunk and 
absenting himself all night from his Quaters The prisoner W^ 
Thomas plead Guilty Begs the mercy of the Court. 

The Court finding him guilty of A Breach of the i, 2, 3 & 4^^ 
Artical of War in the 13*^^ Section. 

The Court Do therefore order him to recive Ninety Nine 
Stripes on his Naked back. 

Signed By orders of the Court Martial Capt. W" Allin 
president. 

Y® 4 of May 1777 the Lieut Colo approves the above the 
sentence of the Court Martial & orders them put in execution 
Tomorrow at Six oclock. 

[Abstract] 

[G.O. Morristown, May 5. Act of Congress published, estab- 
lishing one Surgeon General for each army, to superintend the 
regimental surgeons and mates, and report to the Director 
General, or Deputy Director General; providing supples for a 
general hospital; and authority to remove regimental surgeons 
and appoint others. Doctor William Shippen, Jr., appointed 
Director General of the military hospital (s) erected and to be 
erected by the United States, Doctor Walter Jones and Doctor 
Benjamin Rust, physicians and Surgeons General of the army in 
the Middle Department. 

May 6. Regimental Orders. John Patterson, Captain 
Flagg's company, appointed sergeant in room of Moses Stevens 
reduced to ranks. 

May 6. Regimental CM. Captain Ebenezer Flagg, president. 
Captain Allen, Lieutenants Grant, Sayles, Brown, to try corporal 
Meragan, Captain Allen's company, lodging out of quarters 
(reduced to private centinel) ; Richard Sefton of Allen's company, 
ditto and lying (59 stripes) ; Oliver Washbon, Allen's company, 
for drunk and drawing his bayonet on another soldier (evidence 
of Corporal Meragler; 69 stripes). 

' Qy. Niles. 



228 Orderly Book 

May 7. Regimental Orders. Frederick Keraker, Captain 
Allen's company, appointed coporal vice Micagah Mulligan, 
reduced for sleeping out of quarters. 

Regimental CM. Captain William Allen, president, Lieuten- 
ants Grant, Sayles, Brown, Ensign Dexter, to try Marke Barnes 
(drunk and abusing the good people of the house; 29 stripes). 

G.O. May 9. Concerning the awful vice of gaming; all games 
except those of exercise forbidden. "Officers attentive to their 
duty will find abundant employment in training, disciplining 
their men, providing for them, and seeing that they appear 
neat and clean and soldierlike, nor will anything render more 
to their honor, afford them more solid amusement, or better 
answer the end of their appointment than to devote the vacant 
moments they have to study of military (affairs). 

Head Quarters at Morristown 10 of May 1777 

James Davis in the 1 1 Virginia Reg* Tryed at General Court 
Martial held at Bond Brook Whereof Colo M'^Clainhan was 
President Charged With Having Persuaded A Soldier to Disert 
to the Enemy is a Quitter By the Court he is therefore to be 
Discharged forth With from his Confinement. 

It having bin observed Notwithstanding former Orders to 
the Contrary that Some officers Make A Practis of Riding the 
Continental Horses as Well as those Belonging to the Inhabitence 
In the Neighbourhood of the Army — the Commander In Chief 
Perticular Desires that if any officer In future will Dare to Pre- 
sume to Ride Any Horse Either Public or Private property With 
Out Leve first Obtained from the officer Whose Care it is to 
Dispose of When if Public Property: Or from the Owner if 
Private Property: Shall immediately be Brought to Tryal By 
a Gen* Court Martial. 

Head Quarters 11 of May 1777 

The 3.. 7.. II & 15**" Virginia Regiments Are to Compose A 
Brigade und"! the Command of Brigadier Gen' Woodford. 
And the 4*.'? 8.. 12 & 16 Virginia Regts Are to Compose another 
Brigade undr the Command of Brigidier Gen! Scott. 

Benjamin Day Esq^ is appointed Brigadier Major to Gen' 
Woodford & Sam' Shaw Esq'^ is appointed Brigade Major — to 
Brigadier Gen^ Knox — Both Are to be Respected And OBey'd 
As Such. 

Regimental Orders: 

The Lieut Col? Orders that in All Regimental Court Martials 
for the future When Evidences Are Produced to Support the 



Appendix II 229 

Charge Against any Prisoner, that Such Evidence as far as it 
Relates to the Charge he anexed to the Proceedings of the Court 
Martial. 

Morristown 13 May 1777 

Regimental Court Martial held this Day By ord^"" of Lieut 
Col° Olney. 

To try all Such Prisoners as Shall be Brought before them. 
Capt W'?? Allin President 
Lieut Arnold ) k j Lieut Brown 

Lieut Sayles j "^ei^f^e^s -j Ensign Dexter 
The Court Being Duly Sworn Proceeded to the Tryal of 
Hugh M'^Dugall. But as no Crime Apears against him the 
Court ord^ him to be Imediately Discharged from his Confine- 
ment The Court Proceeded to the Tryal of Mark Barns Charged 
With Absenting him Self from Roll Call The Prisoner plead 
Guilty the Court find the Prisoner Guilty of a Breach of the 

4 Article 13 Section of the Article of War — And do ord^"" him 
to Recive Thirty One Stripes On his Naked Back. 

The Court Proceeded to the Tryal of Joseph Hall Charged 
with Disobedience of Ord^ When on Guard; the Prisoner plead 
Not Guilty. The Charge being fully Proved a Gainst him By 
the Evidences of Sargents Regan and Saml Gardner Dyer. 
Sarg^ Regan On Oatth Saith that he was Exersising the Guard 
und^.'' his Command and ordered them to fire As front Rank, 
the Prisoner Joseph Hall Refused Kneeling and told me twas 
too Dirty — I again ordered him But to no Effect I then struck 
Him With the Britch of my Gunn But he not Withstanding 
fully Refused to Obey My order. I then Struck him with my 
Fist the Sarg* further Saith Not. 

Saml Gardner Dyer On Oath Saith that His Evidence is 
agreable to Sargant Regans. The Court find the Prisoner 
Guilty of a breach of the 5 Article 2"^^ Section of the Article 
of War — and Do Tharefore order him to Ride the Wooden Horse 
Seventy Minutes with four fire Locks Lash"? to his feet. 

The Court Proceeded to the Tryal of Peter Binns Charged 
With Disobediance of Orders When on Guard the Prisoner plead 
Guilty — The Court find the Prisoner Guilty of A Breach of the 

5 Article 2 Section of the Article of War and Do thadrfore order 
him to Receive Fifty Stripes on his Naked Back. The Col? Ap- 
proves the Pending Sentences of the Court Martial & orders 
him to — take place at 6-OClock this Evening. The a Bove 
Court Martial is Disolvd By order of Lieut Col? J. Olney. 

[Abstract] 
G.O. May 14. Quartermaster General to repair the road; also 
to build a guard house in the upper redoubt on the hill, to con- 



230 Orderly Book 

tain 30 men, to be slight and attended with little expense. The 
Commander in Chief approves sentences of General Court Mar- 
tial at Colonel Shrieve's quarters, 5th inst., Colonel Ogden 
president; Elin Jones, for deserting from his post to the enemy, 
to suffer death; the execution to be postponed until further 
orders. John Whitebred, Richard Shaw, John Wood, of the 
nth Pennsylvania Battalion, accused of desertion, acquited, 
to duty. Lieutenant Ross, 2d Jersey Battalion, charged with 
assaulting and using "ungenteel" language to Captain Anderson, 
acquitted. Ensign Patterson of ist Virginia Battalion, leaving 
camp without orders, cashiered and ordered to depart. Thomas 
Evens, nth Pennsylvania, deserting his post with intent to go 
to the enemy, to receive 100 lashes. Benjamin Moore, 2d New 
Jersey, for deserting and reenlisting, 75 lashes. Sergeant Ham- 
mond, 1 2th Pennsylvania, mutinying and striking Captain 
Patterson, to be reduced and to ask pardon. Sergeants Myhard 
and Hallbrook, Corporal Smith, philip Hendrick, Stephen Lee, 
all of the 1st Jersey, suspected of robbing house of Elias Bland. 
Myhard, Smith, and Lee guilty, 100 lashes, but if they confess 
before punishment to be released. Others acquitted. Sentences 
of G.C.M. held 12th inst.. Lieutenant Colonel Barber president, 
approved. William Murphy, of Colonel Angell's regiment, tried 
for desertion, acquitted. Samuel Greatwood, for striking a 
sergeant, 50 lashes. Joseph Borden of Colonel Patton's regiment, 
acquitted. Patt Dunfee, of Colonel Olney's detachment, stab- 
bing the Adjutant General's horse, 50 lashes. Joseph Thorn- 
bury, Esquire, appointed wagon master. Detail from Colonel 
Dayton's regiment, with arms, etc., three days provisions; the 
officer will receive his orders from Colonel Biddle, D.Q.M.G. 

Morristown 16 of May 1777 
Regimental orders 
The Lieut. Col? is Surprised to heir that sum of the Soldiers 
in his Detachment (Not Consulting thir own Ease and Comfort) 
have had their Blanketts Cut up to Make Great Coats and 
(Surtoats ?) — Which he forBid in the Most Posative terms — Any 
Soldier offending in future — herein May Depend on Being 
Severely Punishd for Disobediance of Orders. 

Head Quarters 16*^ of May 1777 
Francis Lewis Esq'; is appointed Brigader Major to B. Gen^ 
MurchlenBurg and is to be respected a Cordingly. 

[Abstract] 
May 16. Regimental CM. Captain Flagg, president. Captain 
Olney, Lieutenants Grant, Arnold, Ensign Dexter, to try John 



Appendix II 231 

Lewis, going to Bottle Hill without leave, and absence from 
quarters all night, to ride wooden horse with four firelocks tied 
to his feet. 

May 17. Regimental CM. Captain Coggeshall Olney, presi- 
dent. Captain William Allen, Lieutenants Arnold, Grant, Ensign 
Dexter. John Martin, 2d, drawing his hanger and striking 
at Corporal Johnson, when in the execution of his office. 
Martin plead not guilty. Sergeant Greenman testified that 
Martin caught a hanger out of his hand and made three rapid 
passes with his hanger. Sergeant Hopkins gave like testimony. 
Martin to receive 100 stripes. John Martin, 2d, for striking 
Sergeant Greenman three times with a club. 100 stripes on his 
naked back. John Bently absent from duty and being at a grog- 
shop (Corporal Brown, Sergeant Stewart) witnesses. William 
Thomas, absent from quarters all night (30 stripes). Colonel 
Olney remits the second punishment decreed Martin. 

May 21. Regimental CM. Captain Flagg, president. Captains 
Olney, Allen, Lieutenants Arnold, Grant, to try Matthew Barr 
of Allen's company, for selling a quarter of mutton to John 
Lewis Garrew, then stealing the mutton from Garrew and con- 
verting it to his own use. Barr claimed he returned the money. 
Daniel (Beaton?) witness, Edward Murphy, witness, Henry Dove, 
witness. 75 lashes. 

Head Quarters Morristown 17 May 1777 

All the Troops In and about Morristown to attend Divine 
Service to Morrow Morning No Excuse will be admitted. 

Head Quarters Morristown 19*'^ May 1777 

The Commander in Chief positively Directs that all officers 
Stationed at out posts Do not Come to Morristown But when 
their Business Absolutely Requires them & in that Case that 
they Return to theyer posts With all possible Expedition. 

Thom? Muller Esq^ is Appointed Brigade Major to Briga- 
dier Genl De Boiro and is to be Respected and Obeyed as Such. 

A Number of horses having Been Drawn from the Q. M: 
Genl for particuler Uses And Not Returned When the Business 
Was Proformed. All officers of Regim^ And Others in Possession 
of Horses Belonging to or hired by the State are Immediately 
to Return to the Q. M. Genl or His Deputy or his Assistants 
in the Districts they may be at. The General officers are 
to order Return to be Made of Any Publick Horses Employed 
in theyre families that the State of the Horses Belonging to the 
Army May be known. 



232 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters May 20*^ 1777 

Valintine Peers Esq^ is Appointed Brigade Major to Briga- 
dier Gen'. Weedon and is to be Respected and Obeyed as Such. 

Lewis Woodruff Esq^ is appointed Deputy Muster Master. 

Col? and Commanding officers of Battallion And Corps Must 
Cause their Regiml pay Masters to make up their pay Abstracts 
to the 30'^^Day of April Inclusive. And Order them to Attend 
at The pay Master Generals office for the Money. They must 
be Examined and Signed by their Respective Commanding 
officers and Brigadiers who will Diligently Compare them with 
the Daily & Weekly Return & Certify them, the Company 
Abstracts must be Delivered to the pay Master Genl with the 
Regimen'. Abstracts. 

That the Great and Necessary Purpose of Adjusting the Rank 
of all the officers In the American Army May be Effected With 
Expedition. His Excellency the Commander In Chief is pleased 
to Order that the Field officers of Each Continental Batt? 
Do Immediately Examine into the pres* Rank and hear the 
pretentions thereto of all their Cap* and Subaltern Settle them 
when they Can to the Satisfaction of all the Gentlemen Con- 
cerned & make a full and fair Report of all their proceedings to 
the Brigadiers Commanding their Brigade and that the Briga- 
diers with The Assistance of the Field officers in their Brigade 
do upon the Receips of Such Reports proceed to adjust the 
Ranks of All the officers in their Respective Brigades And a full 
and Just Report of their proceedings to the Major Gen'. Com- 
manding their Divisions that Should there be Any Instance of 
Dissatisfaction in the officers with the Determination of their 
Field officers They be Candidly Enumirated by Such field officers 
and party Complaining with All theyr Attendant Circumstances 
and P.eported to their Respective Brigadiers Who Shall Call 
Before them all the parties Intrested and Inquire into their 
Claimes And if they Cannot be Settled to General Satisfaction 
Make a Special and particular Report to their Major Generals. 

upon Receips of Such Several Reports A Board of Officers 
Will take a Dispassionate comparitive View of the Whole and 
Determin the Rank in the Army. 

Untill which time it is Expected the Service Will not be 
[injured] A Bout Disputes a Bout Ranks. But that Every 
Officer will by An Emulous Discharge of his Duty Recommend 
himself to his County and to the promotion he thinks Himself 
Intitled to. 

Head Quarters Morristown the 22^ May 1777 

the Following Rangment is to take Place for the Present 
Subject to Such alterations as Circumstances May Hereafter 



Appendix II 233 

Require Viz the i*^, ^^^, g^^, & 13*^ Regiments from Virginia With 
Hazens Regiments to Compose the First Brigade From that State 
under the Command of Brigadier Muchlenburg. 

the 2^ — 6*^^ — 10**^ & 14*^ Rigement to Compose the 2^^ Under 
the Command of Brigadier [Madon?] these two Brigades to 
form a Division to Bee Commanded By Major General Greene. 

the third Seventeenth Eleventh & fifteenth Virgina Rige- 
ment to Compose the third Brigade from that State under the 
Command of Brigadier Woodford and the 4*^ 8 — & 12 Together 
With Graysons & Pattons to Compose the Fourth Under the 
Command of Brigadier Scott. — those two Brigades to Form 
Another Division to Bee Commanded by General Stephens. 

the first third and Sixth Mereyland Regemen*^ and that from 
the Lower County on Dilaway (Delaware) to Compose the 
First Maryland Brigade under the Command of Brigadier 
General Smallwood: and the 2^ — 4*^ & 7 from the Same State 
and the German Battalion to Compose the Second under the 
Command of Brigadier [De Borre?], two Brigades to form 
another Division under the Command of Mayjor General 
Sulivan. 

the I* 2^ 7*^ & 10*^^ Pencylvena Rigements and Hartleys to 
Compose the First Brigade from that State under the Comand 
of Brigadier [Wayne]: and the 4**^ — 5 — 8& 11*'^ the Second under 
the Command of Brigadier Dehaas these Two Brigad to Compose 
aNother Division to Bee Commanded By Lincoln. 

the 6*^ — 9 & 12*^ Pencylvenia Rigements and Spencers to 
form the third Brigade from that State: and the i, 2 — 3 & 4*** 
Gersey Rigements to Compose the Gersey Brigad these two 
Brigades to Compose another Division under the Command of 
Maygor General Lord Starling. 

Arangments General Knox is to Make aNother of the field 
artilery Allowing a Perportionable Number of Peaces to Each 
Brigade a Soficcient Quantity of Spair Amonition for Both 
artilery and Musquets to Bee Conveyed in Secure Carrages 
he is also to Give Nesesary orders for 

[Abstract] 

G.O. May 23. Colonel Olney, Lieutenant Colonels Barber and 
Dehart to sit as a Court of Enquiry, at Captain Dickerson's, 
relative to dispute between Mr. Robert Williams, commissary, 
and the state of New Jersey. 

G.O. May 24. Commander in Chief approves sentences of 
G.C.M. held at Ash Swamp, 14th inst.. Colonel Matthewson, 
president. Ensign Gill, 4th Virginia (absent without leave, but 
because of good character, reprimanded at head of regiment), 



234 Orderly Book 

Captain Russell, 5th Virginia, not guilty, Lieutenant Bradford 
of Colonel Rawling's regiment, absent without leave, to a future 
Court Martial, Thomas Smith, of Colonel Steven's regiment, 
to suffer death for desertion, sentence suspended. 

Reginald Giles, Esquire, appointed Aide de camp to Major 
General St. Clair. All troops about Morristown to attend 
divine service tomorrow morning. 

[Abstract] 

Regimental CM. May 26. Captain E. Flagg, president. Cap- 
tain C. Olney, Lieutenants Arnold, Peirce, Ensign Dexter, to 
try James Phillips, Moses Stephens (for striping to fight, Steph- 
ens the agressor, Phillips reprimanded, Stephens, 29 stripes) 
William Foster (stealing bread from main guard. Corporal 
Thomas, witness; 15 stripes). Captain Olney to officiate in 
Flagg's place, at the punishment, as Flagg goes out to meet 
Major Ward. (Major Ward probably from Rhode Island with 
recruits.) 

Head Quarters Morristown 26 of May 1777 

it Being omitted this Mistake in the ord'' of the 22 Ins* to 
Mention the Brigadier Gen' that Command Major Gen' Lord 
Sterling's Division — Brigadier Gen' Conway Command the 3.. 
6.. 9 & 12**^ Pensylvania Rigements Which Compose His Brig- 
ades. Gen' Maxwell Command the i — 2 — 3 & 4 Jersey Rige- 
ments Which Form his Brigades. 

Fowling Esq'" is appointed Brigade Major to Brigadier Gen! 
Conway & is to be Respected & obeyd as Such. 

Head Quarters Morristown 27*'' May 1777 

One Sub' Sargent & Twenty Privates of U Col° Olneys 
Detachment to Do Duty as Artillery Man Under the Lieut In 
Morristown till Further orders. 

Head Q^:" Morristown 28 May 1777. 

Parole, Washington Counter S^ Olney 
Officer of the Day to Morrow Cap^ Allen 

Head Quarters Morristown 29*'^ May 1777 

The officers of the Day Are to relive Each other upon the 
Grand Parade every Morning When the Guard Mounts at 
Eight oClock Give the officers of the Different Guards their 
Necessary orders. & Visit the Guard Night & Day And Report 



Appendix II 235 

their States as Soon as Reliv'^. Delivering at the Same time a 
Coppy of the Report to the ReHving Officer. 
SSC pr 

I 2- 5 & 4 to Parade Immediatily for Guard, the or- 
dily Sarg* Constantly to attend at the adj* Quarters for orders 
at 12 oClock Untill further Orders. 

Officer of the Day to Morrow Cap^ Hall. 
A Trusty Sarjeant & 6 Privates to Parade at Sun Sitt for a 
Guard in the Upper Redoubt to preseve This Order on the 
Parades. 

Head Quarters Morristown May 31 1 1777 

P: Rhode Island. C. S. Providence. 

The officers of the main Guard not to Suffer Any of the 
Inhabitents what ever to Converse With the State prisoners 
Excpt they first Get my Leave in Wrighting for that purpose & 
then the officer of the Guard is to pay particular Attention to 
what pases Between them. 

Guard for toMorrow as Usial 

officer of the Day Tomorrow Cap* Olney. 

The Commanding officer of the Main Guard are Once in 
three Days to Draw provissions for the Number of prisoners 
under Confinement — Belonging to the State or prisoners of war 
those of my Detachment to Draw provissions In their Respective 
Companies and See that the Guards Supply the prisoners With 
wood And Water Necessary for Cooking &. 

Head Quarters i* June 1777 

P: Green: C: S Varnum 

Guards as Usial officer of the Day tomorrow Cap* Allen. 

Head Quarters 2 '^ June 1777 

P: French C: S. War. 

officer of the Day Tomorrow Cap* Hall 

Guard as Usial. A fitague party Consisting of i Sub i Seg* 
2 Corp'.^ and 24 Privates to parade at 8. oClock to Morrow 
Morning to apply to adjutent for tools they will Receive their 
orders from the Col? The officers Commanding the Main 
Guard are to pay particular Attention that the Guard Rooms 
Are Swept Clean Every Morning the Relief officer is not to 
Reliev the Main Guard Except he finds the Guard house in 
Good Order 

The officers are also to make the prisoners Sweep out their 
Rooms otherwise the Disagreeable Stink will Effect the whole 
Guard house as this order is Calculated to Render the Guard 



236 Orderly Book 

as A Greeable as possible to Both officers and Soldiers the Coif 
Doubts not But proper Notice will Be Given thereto. 

A Court Martial to Sett to Morrow Morning at 9: o-Clock 
Consisting of i Capt 8c 4 Subs for the Tryal of Such prisoners 
as may be Brought Before them. 

A Trusty Serg* & Corporal & 6 privates to parade at 5 : 
o: Clock to morrow Morning to Conduct A party of prisoners to 
Sussex Court House And Deliver them to the Court Now 
Setting there. 

Head Quarters 3*^ June 1777 

P — philedelphy C : S : Virgina 

officer of the Day Tomorrow Cap* Flagg 
Guard and fatague As Usial. 

Head Quarters Morristown 4*** June 1777 

P: C:S 

officer of the Day tomorrow Capt Olney 

I Sub. I Lt. I CI. 16 Pr. for fatague to Morrow 

Guard as Usial 

the Men off Duty are to parade at 3 : o-Clock this afternoon 
Inorder to pitch their Tents upon the Ground Marked out for 
that purpose Major Quin will Provide Straw for the Tents the 
Qr Master to See the wagons are Drove up to the Incampment 
& a Return from Each Com^ of the number of new tents will 
be wanted for and Serve them Accordingly to One tent to 6 Men. 

Regimental CM. June 3. Captain C. Olney, president, Lieu- 
tenants Arnold, Pierce, Kitchal, Ensign Dexter, to try Joseph 
White, and Thomas Brinley (drunk, 39 lashes), William Thomas 
(drunk, sleeping on post; witnesses Davis, Corporal Vanluden; 
39 lashes), Tobias Briggs (selling his blanket; pay stopped, 15 
lashes), Charles McDole (drowsy on post and sitting down; 24 
hours in confinement, on bread and water). 

Camp at Morristown June 7**^ 1777 

Cap* of y? Day tomorrow. Cap* Flagg. 

S S C P 

The Main Guard to consist of 2.. 2.. 3 50 till further Orders. 
All y^ Troops off duty are to attend divine Service regularly 
at y^ Church on Sunday, to appear in Uniform Neat & clean 
without Arms 

[Abstract] 

Morristown, June 8. Captain David Dexter, officer of the day, 
tomorrow. Captains and commanding officers in Major Ward's 



Appendix II 237 

detachment to make returns of arms and blankets, and clothing 
of any kind, supplied by the states that have been lost, etc.; 
delinquents to have pay stopped. 

After Orders, June 9. Articles of War to be read this evening at 
roll call. The Lieutenant Colonel was somewhat surprised this 
morning to see the arms in general so rusty and unclean. 

Camp at Morristown, June 10. Captain Olney officer of the day 
tomorrow. June 11. Captain Allen, ditto. Orders regarding 
exercising the Guard. 

Camp at Morris Town June 12^*" 1777 

Cap^ Hall, Officer for y^ Day. 

Guard & Fatigue as usual. 

The Lieu^ Co'^ Orders a return to be made from each Com- 
pany of All y« damaged Cartridges, & y« number wanting to 
compleat each man with a full Box of Cartridges, this Return 
may be made today & tomorrow. 

the Cap*. & commanding Officers of Companies are to de- 
liver y^ Adj* a Weekly return on Fridays at 12 oClock, Shewing 
y^ exact State of their respective Companies, in Order that y^ 
State of y^ Detachment may be certainly known. The arms 
are never to be neglected, especially after Rain. 

Orders of March for y^ Grand Army 

The whole Army to be under Arms at — oClock, y* tents 
to be immediately Struck & y® Waggons loaded — The Regi- 
ments to be told off in Grand and Sub Divisions & to March 
at half Sub-Divisions — the Officers to be posted at their proper 
places — y^ Brigadiers at y^ Head of their Divisions — the whole 
Army to be in readiness to March at y^ time appointed: in this 
Position to wait y® Orders of y^ Brigadier of y^ Day for moving, 
that y^ whole may March together. 

the Main-Guard to Consist of 40 light Draggoons, & one 
Brigade of Foot under y® command of Brigadiers Gen''.' Muck- 
lingburgh, to advance about lyi Miles in y^ Front of y^ Army, 
to March about an Hour before the Troops are ordered to be in 
readiness. 

Reconnoitering parties to be sent some distance in y* Front 
& on y^ Flanks to examine places where Ambuscades may be 
concealed. 

The Pioneers to March between y' light Troops, & y" Main- 



238 Orderly Book 

Guard, & to repair y^ Bridges & Roads where necessary to effect 
a Safe & easy Passage to y^ Army 

the Van-Guard to take their Artillery with them, & y^ 
Collumn to advance from y^ Right 

the Army to March in y^ following Order, Advancing from 
y^ Right by Sub-Divisions Gen":' Weeden's Brigade first, then 
Woodford's, Scott's, Wayne's, [Dehaas], Conway, Maxwell's, ye 
Artillery annexed to each Brigade to March in, now posted in 

y^ lines. Maxwell's Brigade to form y^ rere-Guard one 

Quarter of y^ Strength are to march in y*= rere of y« rest about 
j^ a mile to" pick up Straglers — A Detachment of 30 light Drag- 
goons to form a part of y^ rere-Guard. 

Col' Morgan's light Infantry to cover y^ left Flank of y^ 
Army exclusive of which each Brigade is to furnish a party of 50 
Men to Reconnoitre y® Enemies Flanks properly officerd, & to 
be commanded by a Field Officer of y^ Day. 

the Park of Artillery to march in y^ Centre of y^ reserve 
Party in y^ second line. 

No Soldier during ye March to leave his Division to fetch 
Water, but if necessity should oblige any to quit their Ranks 
they are to leave their Arms with y® Battallion, & a Non-Com- 
missioned Officer to go with them & see that they return to 
there proper places. 

Great Attention must be Paid in passing Defiles, that men 
may pass them Briskly if necessary in Files & form in Sub- 
Divisions as soon as y^ Road will permit of it — the Head of y® 
Column to move slow after passing a Defile, until y® Rere has 
gaind it also. 



Camp Morris-Town June I3*^ 1777. 

Officer of y'^ Day tomorrow Cap! Flagg. 

Guard as usual. No Fatigue party to be furnished to Day. 

By express from General Varnum. 

I am directed to hold my self in readiness to march at y^ 
shortest notice with Provisions cooked therefore order y^ QT 
Master to furnich y® Men with 3 Days Provisions immediately 
y« Captains will see that tis cook'd as soon as possible & direct 
their Men to keep their cloathing &c: constantly pack'd up, 
that we may have nothing but y« Tents to strike & load up 
when order'd to march — y« Qt Master must see that y^ Waggen 
Horses are all Shod & every thing respecting y^ Waggans made 
complet as soon as possible. 

A General Court Martial to set immediately consisting of 
Major Ward as President, 5 Cap^^ & 7 Subs as Members for y^ 
trial of such persons as may be brot before y« Court. 



Appendix II 239 

Lincoln's Gapp 29*^ June 1777. 

Brigade Orders 

The Cap^^ or commanding Officers of Companies are required 
immediately to make returns of y^ respective Articles of Cloath- 
ing belonging to each Man under their Command. Also returns 
of their Arms Amunition, Bayonets, Flints, Cross & Shoulder 
Straps to ys commanding Officer of their Cores when these 
returns are made, examinations must be had Weekly respecting 
y^ Cloathing — Examinations daily respecting y^ Arms, Accoutre- 
ments &c: Should any deficiencies happen, y^ deliquents will 
not only be responsible in Damages from their monthly pay 
but will be punish' d Corporally according to y® nature of their 
Offence. The Drummers of y® whole Brigade are to attend 
ye Orders of y^ Drum-Major Wise who is appointed Drum- 
Major for ys Brigade. The Fifers must practice without inter- 
mission. The greatest attention must be paid to keeping y^ 
Arms in good Order, as great neglect has been practiced in that 
particular — Prophane Swearing is absolutely forbid Officers and 
men are directed to pay due regard to this Order. J.M. V :B :Gen\^ 



Camp at Peeks Kill July 8* 1777. 
Regimental Orders 

A Court Martial to set immediately, consisting of i Cap'.' & 
4 Subs to try such prisoners as shall be brot before them. 

The Cap!® or Commanding Officers of Cores are to order 
their Men to go immediately to washing their Cloaths & cleaning 
their Arms — those Arms that are Loaded will be drawn by 
applying to y^ person appointed for that purpose, who will 
attend at y^ Waggon Guard. 

The Officers & Men are to be under Arms at 8 oClockto- 
morrow Morning, tis expected that they appear neat & clean as 
possible. 

(The following General Orders for July 10, 1777, do not appear in Allen's 
Orderly-book : 

Head Quarters, Peeks Kill, 10 July, 1777. 
Parole, Leonard C. Sign, Webb. 

Lt. Col. Russel ) 

B. Major Fosdick [ Officers of the day for tomorrow. 
Adjutant Smith J 

The Gen' orders the Disposition of the several Brigades to be as follows, 
vizt. : 

Brigadier Gen' McDougall's Brigade to be on the Right near the old 
Orchard. 

B. Gen! Parsons on the Left between H? Quarters and Col? Sam! Drake's. 

B. Gen! Varnum's on the Right of the Centre next to Gen' McDougall's. 



240 Orderly Book 

B. Gen' Glover's on the left of the Centre next to Gen! Parsons. 

B. Gen' Huntington's in the Centre upon the Fish Kill road leading from 
Peeks Kill 



The Brigades to be as follows: 
Colo s. Green's 
Colo s. Webb's 
Colo Sherburne's 
Colo Angel's 



Gen' Varnum's.) 



Camp July I5**» 1777. 
Regimental Orders 

As y^ General has order'd prayers to be attended at 5. oClock 
in y^ Morning, the Companies are to exercise from Revellee 
beating until 5. oClock (only) instead of Six as order'd yesterday. 

The Cap*.^ or Commanding Officers of Companies are to make 
return immediately of y^ Number of Canteen's wanting to com- 
pleat their respective Cores with one to each Man. Care must 
be taken to charge every Canteen that has been drawn & cannot 
at present be produc'd. 

Cap^ Talbot is requested to make out a pay abstract for 
2 Months for y« Officers & Soldiers of y^ Detachment that came 
up with him. He will take care to distinguish those of one 
Regim* from those of the other, as y« Money must be drawn on 
account of the Regiments by seperate Warrants. 



Camp at Peeks-Kill July 15*^ 1777. 

Regimental Orders 

The Lieu* Col? frequently observes y^ Men appear on parade 
for Guard &c : with their Arms in bad Order, their cloathing ex- 
treamly Dirty, & Slovenly in their Dress: for preventing these 
Evils, & this unsoldier like practice, tis most earnstly recom- 
mended to y« Cap^ & Commanding Officers to have their respec- 
tive Companies divided into Messes of six Men each, & appoint 
a Serg^ & Corpl to each Mess or more Messes as y^ Case may 
require who are to be responsible to their Cap! or other Officers 
for neglect in their respective Messes touching this Order or 
any other neglect of Duty. Care must be taken that y^ Serg* 
and Corporal of any particular Mess are not both order'd on 
duty at y^ same time, neither are all y« Men of a Mess to be 
on duty at one time as some should be left to Cook &c; for those 
on Guard. . . . By adopting a Plan of this kind, I am Confident 
(with the assistance y« Officers have shewn on all occasions) 
that our men will Grace y« parade with a more cleanly & Soldier- 
like appearance than at present, which will do Honour to them 
& the Officers who command them. 



Appendix II 241 

Head Quarters July 15*^ 1777. 

Brigade Gen'.l McDougal " 

Lieu^ Co'.'. Sherman r\cc t ^ r\^ , 

-D T\/r • rv J- 1 r Officers of y* Day 

B. Ma]or Fosdick -^ ■' 

Adj^ Learnard 

As nothing in an Army is so formidable to y« Enemy, so 
respectable and usefull to its friends, & so internally secure in 
it self, as being expert in War at this time when we expect daily 
to be engag'd, & y^ ordinary Camp duty but small. y« General 
expects y« Troops (those that are ofE duty will be employ'd in 
military exercise, & directs that every Company shall be exer- 
cised from Revellee-beating to six oClock in y« Morning y« 
time for relieving y^ Guard, & from 8. o'Clock to 10. in y« fore- 
noon & from 4 oclock in y« Afternoon till 7 & that each Regimt. 
Shall have two Field Days in a Week for regimental exercise. 
Them of Brigadier M? Dougal's, & Parson's on Mondays & 
Thursdays — Those of Brigadier Gen''.'. Varnums, Glover's & 
Huntington's on Tuesday, & Fridays, — The season of y« Year 
being not unhealthy, and the Time drawing nigh in which we 
may expect y^ Enemy will begin their Capital Operations, when 
our whole strength may be wanted, y^ Genii strictly prohibits 
all Persons taking or communicating y* Small Pox by innocula- 
tion or in any voluntary manner under y^ several penalties. »- 

The General Orders that y« Q. M. provide & deliver y« ^ 
Troops Slings for their Canteens & Bayonets Belts. 

At a General Court Martial held at Phillipsborough, Tho? 
Persil [Powel] was tried for deserting to y« Enemy, returning & 
deserting again, & perswading others to desert with him. 
found guilty & Sentenc'd to be shot to Death. The General 
approves ye Sentence, & orders it to be executed on Monday 
ye 2i3t Instant between the Hours of ten and Eleven in y« 
Morning. 

Brigadier Gen'.' Parson's Brigade has liberty to discharge 
their pieces at Retreat beating under y« directions of their 
Officers. 

The Brigade Guard to be augmented to 30 Privates. 

Peeks Kill July iS**^ 1777. 
Parole. C. Sign 

B : G : Glover 1 

Lieut. Col? Wigglesworth 
B : Major Alden 
Adj^ Marvin 

Maj^ Johnston Officer of y^ Picket 

The General Orders, that y^ Provision be drawn early in y" 
Morning, & y« Commissary to issue them accordingly that they 
16 



Officers of y* Day 



242 Orderly Book 

may be convey'd accordingly to their Quarters in y^ cool of 
the Morning. 

Two fatigue parties to parade tomorrow Morning with their 
C. S. S. C. D.F. P 
Arms. One to consist of i.. 3.. 4. 4.. 2. 50 with Provisions. 

S. S. C. DF. P. 
y® other of i.. 2.. 2.. O.. 20 

. . . Edward Palmer that infamous Tory and Robber was 
taken prisoner & confin'd to y^ Provo. Guard this Day, for rob- 
bing y^ Inhabitants, being in Arms against y® States of America, 
& for being a Spy, & is to have his trial on Tuesday next at 9 
o'clock in the Morning by a General Court Martial. All Per- 
sons that can give any evidence against S^ Palmer are requested 
and requir'd to attend S^ Trial. 

Details i.. i.. 2.. i.. 3,0) r ■ r> a 

'^o I for mam Guard 
o.. I.. 4.. o.. 8 ) 

3 Days Provisions 

Head Quarters July iq*** 1777. 
Brig'^r G. Huntington] 
Col? Chandler r\cc r e -n» 

B:J:M:Flagg Officers of y^ Day 

Adj* Tannick 

MajT Parks Officer of y^ Piquet. 

Cap* Flagg is appointed to act as Brigade Major to General 
Varnums Brigade, & is to be obey'd & respected accordingly. 

Brigade Orders 

CoU Green's & Co!! Angel's Battallions to be immediately 
divided into two Cores . . . the commanding Officers are re- 
quired to give each Comp^ an equal number of Officers, Non- 
commissioned Officers, & Privates. 

In y^ Brigade Co!! Green's Battallion to take y^ right, Co!! 
Webb's y^ Left. Co!! Sherburns in y« Right of Centre, Co!! 
Angel's on the Left of Centre when y^ Brigade is call'd into a 
Line either for exercise or Action, the Artillery must be equally 
divided on the Right & Left Flanks, y^ Distance of ten Feet 
to be allow'd between each Battalion 

Head Quarters July 21"* 1777. 
B. G. Varnum 1 

Lieu^ Col? Russel r\cc c » t-» 
B:G:M: Piatt Officer of ye Day 

Adj* Rice 

C. S. S. C. DF 
The Piquet at ye Church Redoubt to consist of i.. 2.. 4.. 4.. 2.. 

P 

50.. Lieut Co!! Olney & Maj^ Ward are appointed Members of a 



Appendix II 243 

Q g 

Court Martial of which Co". Shepherd is to preside, j j from 

C S 
Gen!! M<=Dougal's Brigade . . . i.. 2 from Gen!! Glover's 
Brigade to supply y^ vacancies occasion'd by y« marching of 
General Parson's, & Genl Huntintons Brigades. 

A Serj! & 15 Privates that are Reapers to parade tomorrow 
morning at Head Quarters with their Sickles from Gen!! Glover's 
Brigade. 

A dark Roan Horse taken up by Maj^ Parks in Camp as a 
stray, the owner may have him by applying to Head Quarters. 

Brigade Orders 

The Brigade must be ready tomorrow Morning at 4. oclock. 
ye General will Beat instead of y« Revellee, y^ Troops at 4. 
o'clock & march immediately. 



Head Quarters July 2y^ 1777. 
■ Officers of the Day 



Brig<!^ M^Dougal 
Lieut Livingston 
B: G: M. Piatt* 
Adj^ Learnard 

The General strictly forbids all Persons robbing Gardens, or 
taking any thing from y« Inhabitants without leave from y« 
Owners, or wasting or destroying private property of any kind 
'whereby y^ inhabitants may be injured or distress'd on y^ pains 
of severe Punishmt And all Officers are strictly required to 
see this Order strictly complied with. 

Sub for Court Martial from General Varnum's tomorrow at 
9 oClock. 

Brigade Orders 

It is expected for y® future that y® serj^^ deliver their Men 
on ye Regimental Parade neat and clean to y^ Adj* & present 
their Arms in good Order, that they must at all events have their 
Men well Supplied, with their Cartouch-Boxes full of Cart- 
ridges: the Adjt^upon y^ Men's being brot on parade are re- 
quir'd to examine them individually, before they deliver them 
to the Brigade Major, who is again to enquire of y^ Adj*;"" y^ 
State of their Men. If y^ adjut^ find any of their Detatchments 
deficient they are immediately to call for others to confine y^ 
Serjh & report to y® Brigade Major, who will report to y^ Briga- 
dier General; if y^ Major of Brigade shall find any deficiency 
upon ye Brigade Parade — he will arrest y^ Adj^ of y^ Core, & 
report accordingly. 

* Thos. Fosdick in Ford, 



244 Orderly Book 

One Sub tomorrow Morning at 9. oClock, from Col? Green's 
Regim* for Gen"".! Court Martial 

Details for Guard tomorrow from Col? Angel's Regim* — 
C S S C D F P 
o.. 2.. 2.. 2.. o.. I.. 50 

Head Quarters July 24*** 1777 
Parole Counter Sign [Durkee] 

Brigadier Gen! Varnum 1 
Co" Durkee r\ax t ^ t\ 

B:M. Flagg Officers of ye Day 

Adj* Remington J 

Gen!! Glovers Brigade is order'd to march to y* Northward 
to join our Army there with all expedition — A Fatigue party of 

S S C P 
Reapers from General M^^Dougal's Brigade — ^ ^ j 20 ^^ 

parade tomorrow at Head Quarters — 
C S S C P 

Majr Huntington i.. 4.. 4.. 4.. 100. to relieve y^ Garrison 
at Fort Constitution tomorrow Morning. 

Co!^ S : B : Webb's Regmt have liberty to discharge their 
pieces this Evening at retreat beating under y^ direction of 
their Officers. 

At a General Court Martial held at Peeks Kill by order of 
ye Honourable M G: Putnam July 2".^^ 1777: Serj* Jn? Smith 
& WP White [Capt D. Dexter's company] of Col? Angel's 
Regimt were tried for Desertion and attempting to go to y* 
Enemy, for stealing & embezling Cartridges, carrying off their 
Arms & accoutrements belonging to y* Continent, y^ Court 
find ye Prisoners Guilty and give sentence that ye Serj* be re- 
duced to ye Ranks, & that they each receive 100 Lashes on their 
Naked Backs. The Gen^' approves ye Sentence & orders it to 
be executed tomorrow Morning at parading ye Guards. 

Edward Palmer was arraing'd & tried upon a charge of 
plundering. Robbing & carrying off Cattle Goods &c: from y* 
well affected inhabitants & for being a Spy from ye Enemy — 
the Court find him Guilty of ye whole of ye charge alleg'd 
against him & give Sentence that he suffer ye pains of Death. 
The General approves ye Sentence and orders it to be put in 
execution on Friday ye First Day of August next between ye 
Hours of nine and Eleven in ye Morning by hanging him by y* 
Neck, till he is Dead, Dead, Dead. . . . 



Jn? Smith, W'P White, & Doct Taylors Negro are order'd 
to be put on Board ye Men of War immediately after receiving 
their Punishm* at Fort Montgomery. 



Appendix II 



245 



Head Quarters July 25*'^ 1777 
B. G. M^Dougal 

Col° S. Webb Q^ r p, 

B : G : M : Piatt ^tUcers ot y uay 

Adj^ Hopkins 

Twelve Gars-Men to parade at Head Quarters tomorrow 
Morning, to go on Board y« Boats under y* command of Cap* 
Buckingham [Buchanan?]. 

Details for Gen'i^M'^Dougal's Brigade j' 



S. S. 
2.. 4 



C. 

• 4- 
s c 



D.F. P 
3" 79- 



.— for 



Details for Genrl Varnum's Brigade o -^ -; ^ 70 
Fatigue 10. Privates — 6. Oars-Men. 

Brigade Orders. 

The Generals Guard to be furnish'd as order'd by Rotation. 
Col? Green's furnish it for tomorrow. 

Details for CoV Angel's Regim^ j' j' j ' q' j' 28. 

Camp Contenintal Village July 28 1777 
Regimental Orders 

A Court Martial to be consisting of i. Cap* & 4 Subs, to set 
immediately for y^ trial of such persons as shall be arraingn'd 
before y^ Court, Cap* Stephen Olney is appointed President. 

Edward Murphey was charg'd with absence at Roll call & 
lying out of Camp all Night, & of being found Drunk, y* 
Prisoner was found Guilty. y« Court adjudged him to receive 
fifty lashes on his naked Back, y^ Col^ approve y« Sentence & 
orders it to be executed this afternoon at 6 oClock. 



Parole [Albany] 
B. G. Parsons 
Maj' Grosvenor 
B. M. Alden 
Adj* Convers 



B. G. Parsons 
Lieut Co'} Prentice 
B : M : Humphreys 
Adj* Hart 



Head Quarters July 28*** 1777 
C. Sign [Canaan] 



Officers of y* Day 



Head Quarters July 31** 1777 



Officers of the Day 



Brigade Orders [July 31] 
Cap* Flagg is to relieve y« Garrison at Fort Constitution 
tomorrow Morning with his own Officers his company & a 



246 Orderly Book 

sufficient Number taken from y^ other Companies taken from 
Co^i Green's Regim* to make up fifty Rank & File. 

Details for Guard C. S. S. C. P P 

Co'i Angel's Regim^ i.. o.. i.. i.. 22 fatigue 3 



Officers of y^ Day 



Head Quarters August i®> 1777 
Gen^ Varnum 
Coll Willis 
B. M^ Flagg 
Adj* Hopkins 

Generl M^^Dougal's & Gen^ Huntington's Brigades are or- 
der'd to march with all possible Dispatch to join Gen^^ Washington 
at Philadelphia pursuant to Orders receiv'd from his Excellency. 

C. S. S. C. DF. P. 
Details-Co" Green-o.. i.. i.. i.. 2.. 18-2 ) p • 
Co^ Angel — o. i.. i.. i.. o.. 22 — 3^ ^ 



Head Quarters August 3'"'^ 1777 
Parole. C. Sign 

Gen'i Varnum 
Maj"; Huntington 
B. Maj^ Box 
Adj^ Selden 

A General Court Martial to set tomorrow Morning at 9. 
°Clock at ye House of y^ Widow Warren. Col° S: B: Webb is 
appointed President of y^ Court. Maj^ Sitt, 4. Cap^^ & 4. 
Subs from Gen'} Varnums Brigade. 



Officers of y^ Day. 



Head Quarters Augus* 4}^ 1777 
Parole — C. Sign — 

Brigadier Gen'. Parsons 

B-G:ul'''nZ,^rey Officers of ye Day 

Adj^ Remington 

General Putnam's Guard to consist of 24. Privates. The 
General has reason to think that y^ attention of y^ Enemy is 
turn'd towards y^ North River — and y^ passes in y^ Highlands, 
daily, and hourly expect an Attack, reminds and enjoins it 
upon every Officer in this department immediately to examine 
y« State of y^ Arms & Ammunition of their men, & see that they 
are put in y^ best condition possible for an attack, y^ Surgeons 
of y^ several Regim^^^ are desir'd to make daily returns of y^ 



Appendix II 247 

Sick under their care belonging to their respective Regimt® to 
Doct^"" Burnet Surgeon & Physician General. 

r^ ^ ., S. S. C. DF. P 

Details— 2.. 2.. 2.. 2.. 41. 

Brigade Orders for Guard 

S. S. C. D.F. P. 
Coll Angel's Regim* — i.. i.. i.. 2.. 23 
Fatigue — o.. o.. o.. o.. 5 
Col° Angels Regim* furnishes y® Generals Guard tomorrow 

Regimental Orders 

At a court Martial held y^ 2"^^ Instant whereof Cap* 
Coggeshall Olney was President — Jn? Taber of Cap* Shaw's 
Compy. was tried for selling his shirt contrary to Orders, found 
Guilty & Sentenc'd to be whipt twenty five Lashes on his 
Naked Back. Edward Murphy of Cap* Allen's Compy. try'd 
for getting Drunk found Guilty & order' d to ride a Wooden 
Horse sixteen Minutes with two fire-locks lash'd to his Feet. 

The Lieu^ Col? approves y^ Sentences, and orders them to 
take place in presence of y^ Regim* at 6. °Clock this Afternoon. 



Officers of y® Day, 



Head Quarter Augus* 6^^ 1777 
B. G. Huntington 
Col Bradley 
B. Maj": Alden 
Adj* Arwen [Marvin] 

Col? Charles Webb's Regm* in General Parsons Brigade is 
to be muster'd tomorrow Morning @ 5. oClock — the light 
Draggoons are to be mustred at 6. oClock tomorrow Morning — 
the Orders of y^ workmen in y^ Armouring business to be subject 
to Col? Allen y^ Superintendant — the commanding officers of 
y^ respective Regim*.^ are to give orders for repairing y^ Arms in 
their Regim*.^ that are deficient with a certificate how their 
Arms became defective — those that are certifi'd to want repair 
by inevitable Accident y^ Armourer is to repair without respect — 
those that are certified to be so thro default of y^ Soldier or 
Soldiers is to be charg'd to y^ Regim*: an ace? of y^ Cost, to 
the Names of such Soldiers are to be monthly transmitted by 
y^ commanding Officer of y^ Regim* to which he belongs to y« 
Pay-Master, who is to stop such cost out of y^ defaulting Sol- 
diers Wages — the Signal to be given by y^ Sub and his party 
of 30. Men gone to Haverstraw on their discovering y^ Enemies 
Fleet coming up y^ North River, is to be a large Fire & a Smoke 
on y^ Hill — Col? Angels Regim* to furnish y^ Generals. 



248 Orderly Book 

Guard tomorrow. 

C. S. S. C. DF. P. P 

Details for Genl Varnums Brigade — i.. i.. i.. i.. i.. 18.. — 2 

Col? Angels Reg* — 0.. i.. i.. 0.. i.. 10.. — i 

Camp N? 2. August 8**^ 1777 

Regimental Orders 

Whereas complaint has been made against Payne Hinds 
Corpl in Cap^ Shaws C? for being Dirty & Lousy, a crime that 
would effectually disgrace y« Caracter of a private Soldier, 
much more that of an Officer, of any rank, whose business it 
ought invariably to be to appear Neat &, Clean, whereby he 
would not only establish his Character in a favourable point of 
view, but would be instrumental of producing y^ happy effect 
of a Laudable Ambition in y^ Soldiery — tis much to be hop'd 
that no other Non-Commission'd Officer in y^ Regim* is so lost 
to every sense of honour as hereafter to make such a contempt- 
ible appearance as y® afores'd Corpl Hinds, who disgraces y* 
Office he sustain'd «& is therefore Order'd to be reduc'd to a 
Private sentinal [in] y^ Ranks & do duty in future as a private 
— For preventing in future complaints of this kind y^ h^ Col° 
Orders y® Cap*.^ to cause freequent examinations to be made 
in their respective Co® — should any of y^ Soldiers hereafter be 
found in this disagreeable condition they are immediately to be 
paraded, & y^ Camp-Cully Men turn'd out under y« care of a 
Serjt who is to see that y^ delinquents are thoroughly wash'd 
and Scrubb'd — this mode of punishm* to be inflicted on all 
offenders herein, till they are convinc'd that y^ remedy is worse 
than y^ disorder to deal with. 

Head Quarters August 9*^ 1777 
Brigadier Genl Huntington 

B.Matpiatt Officers of r Day. 

Adj^ Pearl 

Col? Swifts & Col? Livingston's Regim*.® to be muster'd 
next Monday Morning at 5. oclock — The Genl is Surpriz'd to 
see y^ avarice of the Country, & y^ unreasonable prices extorted 
from y^ Soldiers by y^ Market People, for want of a Rule or 
Standard to regulate y^ price of articles by — Order'd and directed 
in future thro this Season that y^ price of Articles sold in Camp 
Shall be as follows — Butter 21 pr lb. — Mutton & Lamb 18 — Veal, 
16 — Milk, 16 pr Q''.* — Potatoes 61 pT Bush! — Squashes 11 p'" 
Peck — Cucumbers 11 p^ Doz" — Roasting piggs 11 p^ lb. — 
Turnips, Carrots, & Beats 61 pT Bush! — y« above prices in York 



Appendix II 249 

Money — and no person or persons in Camp may give or take 
for y^ above Articles more than is herein Stated for y« above 
mention' d Articles, & in proportion for greater or smaller 
quantities on pain of forfeiting y« Articles, or y« value thereof — 
y« provo Guard, is reduc'd i Cap* i Sub. — i Serj* — i Corpl & 
34 Privates. 

Gen^. Varnum's Orders [Aug. ii] 

Co\ Webb's Regim* to furnish y« Generals Guard tomorrow — 
L^ Tho? Waterman is appointed to act as Adj* in Col? Angel's 
Regim^ until further Orders, & is to be obey'd as such. 

Camp at N? 2. August 12*^ 1777 
Regimental Orders 

A Court Martial consisting of i Cap* & 4. Subs, to set at 9. 
oClock this Morning for y^ trial of such prisoners as shall be 
arraign'd before them. 

All y^ Waiters in future (except one in each Marquee) are 
to parade with y^ Regim* at 5. oClock in y« Afternoon for 
exercise, when tis expected y^ Officers and all y® Men off duty 
will attend — one commission'd Officer from each C? is to see 
their Rolls carefully call'd & the men accounted for — All ab- 
sentees to be confin'd in y^ Q": Guard. . . . the Lt Col? pro- 
poses in future to exercise y« Officers from 8. to 9. oClock in y* 
Morning, & requests they will Parade accordingly — the Serj*.^ 
& Corp'? off duty, are to exercise in future under Care of y* 
adju* from 2. to 3. oClock in y^ afternoon. 

Regemental Orders [Aug 12.] 

At a Regimental Court Martial Cap^ S. Shaw President — 
Jn? Schyrmes of Cap* Allen's C? try'd for stealing Rum out of 
the Store when posted as a Sentinel, & being found in Liquor 
therewith — found Guilty, & order'd to receive 39. Lashes on his 
naked Back, the L* Col? approves y« Sentence, & orders it 
to be put in execution in presence of y^ Regim* at 6 oClock this 
afternoon — Notwithstanding y« approbation of y^ Sentence, y* 
L* Col? (upon consideration of y'^ prisoners good Behaviour 
heretofore, & y^ request made by his Cap* for forgiveness) 
thinks proper to pardon y« Prisoner, & orders him releas'd. 

Camp N?2. 13*^ August 1777 

At a regimental Court Martial held by order of L* Co^ 
Olney for ye trial of such prisoners as shall be brot before them — 
Cap* S. Shaw President— Edward Murphey of Cap* Allen's C°^ 
confin'd for being absent at Roll call twice, & James King for 
being absent from Roll-Call 3. times Successfully — try'd & both 



250 Orderly Book 

found Guilty, & order'd to ride y^ wooden Horse 15 Minutes 
each, with 4. Fire locks ty'd to each prisoners feet. — The L* 
Col? approves y^ Sentences of y^ Court & orders them to take 
place between 6. & 7. oClock this Evening in presence of y^ 
Regjm* 

Camp N?2. August 19^^ 1777 
Regimental Orders. 
The Col directs y^ Orderly Serj* of each Company in y^ 2"*^ 
Battalion from y^ State of Rhode-Island; daily for y^ future, 
when they hear y^ Serj*:^ call beat immediately to repair to 
Serj* Jeremiah Greenman's Tent to receive y® Orders of y^ Day. — 
Daniel Hudson of Cap* Tew's Company in y^ 2"*^ Battalion 
from y^ State of Rhode Island, is appointed Fife Majy, & to be 
obey'd as such. 

Israel Angel Col 



Camp N?2. August 28*.'' 1777 
Regimental Orders 
The Cap^^ or commanding Officers of each Company in y^ 
2"^^ Battalion from y^ State of Rhode Island, are immediately to 
see that their Men's Arms are well clean' d & put in y^ Best 
order also to examine all their Cartridge Boxes, see that they be 
full, & y^ Cartridges good — & y^ Boxes carried out of y« Tents 
and well dried in y^ Sun. 

Israel Angel Col' 



Head Quarters August 29*^^ 1777 
Parole Davenport C. Sign, Eno. 

Col Durkee ~\ 

B. May. Piatt [ Officers of y^ Day. 
Adj* Converse) 

A General Court Martial is appointed to set on Monday next 
at 9 oClock in y« Morning at y« House of y^ Widow Warren, 
whereof C?' Angel is appointed President, i. Cap^ & 2. Sub from 
G. Varnum's Brigade. Genl Varnum's Brigade is excus'd from 
duty tomorrow, for Brigade exercise, & Skirmishing, by firing 
Field Pieces & Plattoons. Each of y« other Brigades will have 
y^ Same indulgence in their Turn. 

Camp N?2. Sept^ 3'".'^ 1777 
Regimental Orders 
The Captains or Commanding Officers of each Company in y^ 
Regim*, are required immediately to make a return of y^ Taylors 



Appendix II 251 

in their respective Companies with their Names in Writing, all 
of whom are hereby order'd to join in one Mess, & work at their 
Trade for y^ Officers and Soldiers of S4 Regim*, under y^ direc- 
tion of Mf Jn? Usher, who is required to keep an exact acc° 
of all y^ Labour they do, for which they are to receive one half 
of ye Customary price, allowing to MT Usher one Shilling out of 
ye price for one Uniform Coat, for his trouble in keeping y^ 
Accompts, & overseeing y^ Business, and so in proportion for 
all other work that they do — their observance of y^ above 
Order will excuse them from all other Duty, except in Case of 
an Alarm. 

Israel Angel Co^^ 

[From General Orders, Sept 5. 1777.] 

At a Genl Court Martial, held at Peeks KillSepti-2'}'^ 1777 C°} 
Angel President, 

Serj* Jn? Dunbar, Serg* W™ Park, Serj* Aaron Buck, Serj* 
Jn9 Patterson, Serj^ Noel Tabor,' Serj* Jos: Brown — Francis 
Baptist— W'." Hardy, =* Asa Lewis, Corpl Jn? Gould, WP Lane, 
W™ Davis, Drum"" of Col Green's Regim* were try'd for rais- 
ing a mutiny — On trial y^ Court are of Opinion that the Prisoners 
are not Guilty of raising a Mutiny, but that they are guilty of be- 
having in a disorderly manner — The Court do therefore order that 
ye six Serj^^ be suspended during y« pleasure of y^ Commanding Of- 
ficer of ye Regim^ to which they belong — ^The Court further order 
the others of ye above prisoners be reprimanded by ye Command- 
ing officer of ye Regime excepting Corpl Gould, who is hereby 
acquitted — Henry Troy [Forsy, or Forsythe?] late of Col Green's 
Regim* try'd for desertion, & enlisting into Col Webb's Regim* 
the Court sentence him to receive 100 Lashes on his naked Back, 
& sent on Board one of y® Continental Ships of War, to be kept 
during ye War — Jn°Fly^ of Co! Willis's Regimt try'd for desertion, 
found Guilty and order'd to receive 100. Lashes on his Naked 
Back — the Genl approves ye proceedings & Judgm*^ of ye Court 
Martial as above S^, and orders them executed tomorrow morn- 
ing @ 9 oClock — WPTaylor Provost Martial, try'd for disobedi- 
ence to Genl Orders, in riding the Waggon Horses, but not 
knowingly, or wilfully — do therefore acquit him from further 
punishment — ye Genl approves ye Sentence of ye Court Martial, 
& orders S^ Taylor to be releas'd from his Confinement. 

At a Genl Court Martial held at Peeks Kill ye 5th of Sepf. 
Col Angel President — Sam'l Stadwork"* try'd for enlisting into 

' Newel Sabin, in Ford. 

' Hardin, in Ford. The name of Gideon Gary, corporal, is here omitted. 

3 Fletcher, of Captain Barnard's company, in Ford. 

4 Sturda vent, tried for enlisting into Gaptain Granger's company, in Ford. 



252 Orderly Book 

Col C. Webbs Regim* after he had enlisted into Col Swifts 
Regim*, received y« Bounty — the Court Sentence him to receive 
100. Lashes on his naked Back, to be inflicted at 3. different 
times, & then to be cent on Board one of y« Continental Ships of 
War there to be kept to hard Labour during y^ War — The Gen! 
approves y^ Sentence and orders it executed by whipping 34. 
Lashes tomorrow morning at 9 oClock — 33. next Morning & 33. 
on Monday morning — the Court Martial whereof Col Angel was 
President is dissolv'd. 

Camp N? 2. Sep^ 6**^ 1777 
Regimental Orders 
The Cap*.® or Commanding Officers of each Comp^ in y* 
2"^ Battalion from y® State of Rhode Island are immediately to 
make a return to y« Co', of all y« Serj*® & Corporals in their 
respective Companies, with their Rank & Names in Writing, 
& by whom enlisted, — also of all y« Fifers and Drummers — y" 
Col further orders, that when y^ Regm^ turns out at 2. oClock 
this afternoon, agreeable to General Orders, that every non- 
commission'd Officer & Soldier, that is well turns out, except one 
Waiter to each Marquee — no excuse will be admitted from any 
one, who shall be absent, except he has leave of Absence in 
Writing from some Officer in y« Battalion — those who disobey 
this Order may expect to meet with Punishm* — and all who 
neglect turning out in y^ Morning for prayers (those that are 
going on Guard not excepted) will likewise be punished — Jn° 
Smith of Cap* Dexters Company who Enlisted a Serj*, but for 
some misdemeanour, was reduc'd to y« Ranks, is now for his 
extraordinary good behaviour since, promoted to a Corporal in 
S^ Company, & to be obey'd as such. 

Israel Angell Coi 

Head Quarters [Sep* 6, 1777] 
Parole [Christeen] C. Sign [Elk] 

B°'M."piltt } offi«- °f y D^y- 

The General observing some indiscretion in granting of 
Furloes to y« detrim* of the Service, Orders in future that no 
furloes shall be granted to any of y« Troops in this Departm* 
except by a Generaly in their Regim*^ — and Officers of y", 
respective Regim*.^ are directed to make a return of all deserters 
from y« Brittish Army in their Regim*^ — and cause them to 
appear tomorrow Morning on y« Grand parade. 

Regimental Orders 

Commanding Officers of Companies will forthwith make out 
and deliver in to y« Adj* a true return of all Deserters from y* 



Appendix II 253 

British army in their respective Companies — they will be paraded 
with y«* Guard to-morrow morning, to be march'd down to y« 
Grand parade, as by requisition of General Orders. 

Israel Angell Col 



[Sept. 7.] The Orders of Yesterday respecting those who 
came from y« Brittish Army were not fully understood — The 
General Orders y« commanding Officers of y« respective Regim*.^ 
to cause their Captains to examine their Companies, & to report 
y* Number of British Soldiers in their respective Companies, 
& cause them to appear on y^ Grand parade tomorrow Morning 
at 8 oClock in order to their being enlisted & embodied into one 
Regimf, agreeable to orders from his Excellency Gen'. Washing- 
ton, that they may have opportunity to distinguish themselves 
pursuant to y^ noble Spirit they have discover' d by coming 
over to us. 

Camp N? 2. Sept^ 9**^ 1777 

Regimental Orders 

The Capt? or commanding Officers of each Company in y* 
Regim^ are directed to see that their Orderly Serj*.^ do make an 
exact return of those sick in Camp belonging to their respective 
Companies with their Names in writing to be brot to y^ Co'* 
Quarters by 8. oClock every Morning and every Friday Morning, 
a General Return of all y*^ Sick in each Company with y« place 
of their confinem* — . Docf^. Tenny Surgeon to y^ Regim* has 
taken his Quarters with y® pay Master near y^ Continental 
Village but is requir'd to attend at y* Co'? Quarters every Morn- 
ing to receive y^ above s"? Returns which are to be directed to 
him, & he is to inspect each ones case & make reports to y® Co! 
of each ones disorder. 

Israel Angell Co'. 





Head Quarters. Sep*.'^ 


gth 


1777 


Parole [McDougall] 






C. Sign [Greene] 


MajT Ward 

B. Majr Humphrey 

Adj^ Boyce 


■ Officers of 


y« Day. 








A party for fatigue — i. Sub — 
parade tomorrow Morning to 


I. Serj^ 
mend 


I. Corp'. & 
y« Road 


30 

up 


Men to 
y« Hill 



towards y"* Village, to receive y^ Tools, at y« Quarter 
Master General's Store. 



254 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters Sepf lo*^ 1777 
Parole [Bradley] C. Sign. [Chandler] 

Col Bradley ) 

B. Maj^ Piatt [ Officers of ye Day. 

Adj^ Marvin ) 

The Commanding Officers of Regim*? are requested to cause 
a Return to be immediately made to y^ General of all those who 
have deserted from y« British Army or Navy since y^ Battle of 
Lexington, & had never been in y^ Service of y^ United States 
before they deserted from y^ British Army who have inlisted 
with Cap! Felton from their respective Regiml^ in order that y^ 
Continental Bounty which they have receiv'd may be return' d 
& paid into y^ Hands of W™ Budlow Esq'' D. Pay Master Gen! 
in this departm*, who is to lodge his Receipts there for y® Gen- 
eral — Those Soldiers who have inlisted with Cap! Felton who 
have Clothes sufficient to serve them to Philadelphia without 
their Regimental Coats, are to leave their coats, those that have 
not are to take them — The severe Season of y^ Year is now 
coming on us, & many of y^ Troops are destitute of Shoes, 
Stockings & other necessary Cloathing — to supply which one 
Commission'd Officer from each Company in y^ several Regimes 
is order'd to go home immediately to recruit and procure Shoes, 
Stockings & other Cloathing for their Companions, & return 
into Camp again by y^ first of Ocf: next — The pay Master of 
y® several Regim*? — are to pay those Deserters who have inlisted 
with Cap! Falton from their respective Regim!^ their Wages due 
to y^ time of their Inlistm^^ with S^ Cap! Falton or to give proper 
certificates of their Wages due, & that y® same hath not been 
paid them before they march from hence. 



Continental Village Sepf: 11*'^ 1777 
Gentlemen 

You will immediately Cause returns to be made of y« Names 
of y^ Men in your Battalions whose Inlistm!® are not here, to 
y^ purpose that an Express may proceed immediately to Rhode 
Island for them — No pay can be obtain'd till a regular abstract 
is made. 

I am &c: 

James Varnum B. G. 
Col Green, & Angell present 



Appendix II 255 

Head Quarters. Sepf: 12*'' 1777 
Parole C. Sign 

U Col Starr ) 

B. Majr Box y Officers of y^ Day. 
Adj*^ Waterman ) 

By reason of Some Regim^.^ being order' d to y^ Northward 
from y^ Brigades here, & for some other considerations, a new 
arrangem* of y^ Regimes into Brigades has become necessary. 
The General therefore directs and orders that the Regim*^ of 
Co^s Durkee, Chandler, and Bradley, form one Brigade, & be 
commanded by B. G. M^Dougal — That y« Regim*.^ of Col^ 

C. Webb, WilHs, S. Webb, & Dimon form one Brigade, & to be 
commanded by B. G. Parsons — That y^ Regim^^of Co'.® [Green?] 
Angell, & Sherburn form one Brigade, to be commanded by 
Gen'. Varnum — that y« Regem*? of L^ Col Prentice & Col Swift 
form one Brigade to be commanded by B. Genl Huntington. 

Head Quarters Septr 13*^ 1777 
Parole Adams C. Sign Lee. 

Maj^: Sedgwick ") 

B. Majr Piatt [ Officers of y« Day. 
Adji Holden ) 

Head Quarters Sept^ 14*^ 1777 
Parole C. Sign 

Col Green ") 

B. Maj^ Alden [ Officers of y^ Day. 

Adjt Holden ) 

The Field Officers of y^ Day are again invited to Dine at 
Head Quarters the Day they are on Duty — the reason of Re- 
peating this in Orders, is that many of those Gentlemen have 
arriv'd in Camp since y^ former publishm^ of it. 

Brigade Orders. 

Details for Col Angel's Regim* 

C. S. S. C. D.F. P. 
Guard — o.. i.. 2.. 2,. 2.. ..28 
Col Green's Regim* furnishes y^ Generals Guard tomorrow. 

The following was omitted in its place — 

Camp N?2. SeptT ii**^ 1777 
Regimental Orders 

A Court Martial is order'd to set @ 9 oClock this Morning, 
consisting of i. Cap* & 3. Subs for y^ trial of Serj* Booth. 

Israel Angell. Col 



256 Orderly Book 

Sepf ii*h 1777 
At a Regimental Court Martial held this Day, whereof Cap* 
D. Dexter was President, was try'd Serj*. Daniel Booth for 
absence from Roll call & getting Drunk— found Guilty & 
sentenc'd to be reduc'd. 

The Col approves y« Sentence, & Orders Said Booth to do 
Duty for y® future as a private Sentinel. 

Israel Angell Col 

Camp No. 2. Sepf 15*^ 1777 
Regimental Orders 

Doct^ ]n° Parrish is appointed Surgeons Mate to my Regim* 
& to be obey'd as such, untill Docf: Cornelius is Exchang'd. 

The Col is sorry to observe that many Soldiers in his Regim* 
are found Strolling about several Miles from Camp without 
leave, altho Orders have been repeatedly Issued to y« Contrary — 
the Col assures that every one for y« future that shall be found 
one Mile from y^ encampmt — without leave in writing from his 
Officer he shall be immediately confind and try'd by a Regimental 
Court Martial for disobedience of Orders — All y« Officers in y« 
Regim^ are required to pay y® Strictest attention to this Order; 
and one Commission'd Officer in each Company is to be present 
when y^ Rolls are call'd & if any one Soldier is absent without 
Leave they are to take his name & immediately confine him on 
his return. The above orders to be read this Evening when 
paraded for Prayers — and tomorrow Morning. 

Israel Angell Col 

Head Quarters Sept^ 15*^ 1777 
L* Col Meggs 1 

B. Majr Box V Officers of y* Day. 
Adj* Johnston ) 

Details for Col Angel's Regim* 

i".. I.'. ?:. 2^8-^0^^^^^^- 

Head Quarters Sep* 16*1^ 1777 

Parole— Schuyl. C. Sign —Kill 

Majr Thayer ) 

B. Majr Alden > Officers of y« Day. 

Adj* Waterman ) 

The Officers of y« Several Regm*.^ & Companies — are directed 
to examine y^ Arms & Ammunition of their Men, and see that 



Appendix II 257 

their Arms are in good repair & that they have a supply of Am- 
munition. 

Camp N° 2. 16th Sepf 
Regimental Orders 

Agreable to y« above General Orders The Capt^ and com- 
manding Officers of each company in y« Regim^ are required 
immediately to Examine y^ Mens Arms and Ammunition, & 
see that they are in y« best order, they possibly can be put in, 
fit for Action — they are also to make return to y« Col of y* N? 
of Bayonet Scabbards wanting in each Company — The Non- 
commissioned Officers & Soldiers who are off Duty tomorrow 
are desir'd to apply to pay-Master Holden for their Weekly 
allowance of Sugar, as Mr Holden will give his attendance on 
Wednesday & thursday in each Week for that purpose. 

A Regimental Court Martial to set Tomorrow Morning for 
y« tryal of such prisoners as may be brot before them. — to con- 
sist of I. capt & 4. Subs. 

Israel Angel Col 

General Orders 

General Washington's H'd Quarters, Washington Sep* 5**^ 

From every information of y® Enemies design, & from their 
Movements it is manifest that their Aim is, if possible to possess 
themselves of Philadelphia. This is with them a Capital object, 
tis what y*= last year strove to effect, but were happily disap- 
pointed. They made a 2^'^ attempt a* y^ opening of this Cam- 
peign: but after vast preparation & expence for that purpose, 
they abandon' d their design, and totally evacuated y« Jersies — 
they are now making their last Effort — it seems they first in- 
tended to come up y* Delaware, but from y^ Measures taken 
against them in y^ River judg'd y^ Enterprize that way too 
Hazardous — At length they have landed on y« Eastern Shore 
in Maryland, & advanc'd some little way into y^ Country; but 
y« General thinks they will again be disappointed in their Views, 
Should they push their design against Philadelphia on this Route 
— Their all is at Stake — they will put y^ contest on y« Event of 
a Single Battle; if they are overthrown, they are utterly Un- 
done — y^ War is at an End — Now, then is y® Time for our strenu- 
ous exertions; one bold stroke will Free, y« Land from Rapine, 
Devastation & Burnings, and Female Innocence from brutal 
Lust and Violence — In every other Quarter y^ American Arms 
have been of late rapidly successfull ; great Numbers of y« Enemy 
have fallen in Battle, & still greater Numbers have been taken 
prisoners — The Melitia to y« Northward have fought with a reso- 
lution that would have done Honour to y® oldest Soldiers — they 



258 Orderly Book 

Bravely fought and Conquer'd & Glory attends them — Who can 
forbear to emulate their Noble Spirit — Who is there without am- 
bition to share with them in y^ applause of their Country Men, 
& of all posterity, as y^ defenders of Liberty, and preservers of 
peace and happiness to Millions in y^ present and future Gener- 
ations? Two years we have maintain' d the War & struggled with 
difficulties innumerable; but y^ prospect has since brighten'd, & 
our affairs put on a better Face — Now is y« Time to reap y® 
fruits of all our Toils and Dangers; If we behave like Men; this 
third Campaign will be our last — Ours is y^ main Army, to us 
our Country Men look for protection; y® Eyes of all America & 
Europe are turn'd upon us, as on those by whom y^ Event of y^ 
War is to be determin'd; and y^ General assures his Countrymen 
& fellow Soldiers, that he believes y^ critical y^ important time 
is at hand, which demands their most spirited exertions in y® 
Field. Here Glory waits to Crown y® Brave — Peace, Freedom, 
and Happiness will be y^ reward of Victory — Animated by 
Motives like these Soldiers fighting in y^ Cause of Innocence, 
humanity and Justice, will never give Way ; but with undaunted 
Resolution press on to Conquest — And this y^ General assures 
himself is y^ part y^ American Forces, now in Arms, will Act; 
and thus acting he will ensure them Success. 

Camp N° 2. Septr 17th 1777 

Regimental Orders 

At a Regimental Court Martial whereof Cap^ W" Allen was 
president — was try'd Benj? Fowler of Cap^ Shaw's Company for 
absenting himself from Gen'. Hospital without leave & disobedi- 
ence of Orders in other Instances, found Guilty, and order' d to 
receive 20. Stripes on his naked. Back — The Col approves y^ 
Sentence of y^ Court Martial and orders it put in Execution, at 
Retreat Beating before prayers this Evening 

Israel Angel, Co\ 

Head Quarters 17*^ Septf 1777. 
Parole C. Sign 

L^ Col Comstock ") 

Maj"" Box [ Officers of y« Day. 

Adj^ Shelden j 

Details 
C. S. S. C. D.F. P. 
G. Varnum — i.. 3.. 3.. 4.. 4.. 91. 

G. Huntington — o.. i.. 2.. 2.. 0.. 49 Fatigue by G. 

Huntington 



Appendix II 259 

Head Quarters Septr i8**» 1777 
Parole. C. Sign. 

Maj'; Ward ") 

B. Maj': Alden [ Officers of y« Day. 

Adj* Holden ) 

Jn? Wise Drum Majf in Gen? Varnum's Brigade is appointed 
provost Martial, & is to be obey'd as such. 

Camp N? 2.— 1 8th Sept? 

Regimental Orders 

As y^ Regm* was first arrang'd to consist of 8. Companies, 
but being sent forward by Detachm!^ y^ Companies have not 
yet been formed, the Col orders y^ Capt! or commanding Officers 
of y^ several Companies to make a return of y^ Commissioned, & 
Non-Commission' d Officers in their respective Companies to be 
return' d to y^ Co^ by 8. oClock tomorrow Morning — and as it is 
thot to be much more convenient on many accounts to have each 
Company in y^ Regim* of an equal number, or as near as possible, 
y« officers are requested to bring in a return of y^ Mens Names 
that properly belonged to their Companies — Every Officer off 
duty is desir'd to attend at y^ time and place above mention'd 

Israel Angell Co^ 

Head Quarters. Sepf: 19*** 1777 
Parole C. Sign. 

Col Angel ") 

B. MajT Box [■ Officers of y^ Day. 

Adj^ Johnston ) 

Lost on y« Road to Danbury within 13. Miles of Peeks Kill 
landing a small Parchm^ enclosing a number of Continental 
Bills to ye Amount of about 100. Dollars; also a Note of Hand 
for I2.£ in favour of Daniel Pendleton, sign'd by Daniel and David 
Pendleton — whoever will return S? parchment. Money & Note 
to Cap^ Daniel Pendleton, or Head Quarters shall receive 20 
Dollars Reward, & necessary charges paid. 

Piquet 
Guard— C. S. S. C. D.P. P. C. S. S. C. DP. P. 

G. Varnum — i.. 3.. 3.. 4.. 2.. 91 i.. i.. 3.. 3.. 2.. 32 
G. Huntington — o.. i.. 2.. 2.. 2.. 49 i.. i.. i.. o.. 18 

Brigade Orders 

None of y^ non-Commission' d Officers or Soldiers are per- 
mitted to pass y« Creek, south of y^ Incampm^ when off duty 



26o Orderly Book 

but with a written permission from an Officer those who trans- 
gress this order will be punish'd accordingly. 

The prices for washing and Taylors work in the Brigade are 
stated as Follows — The commanding Officers of Regim.^ Are 
requir'd to cause y^ Brigade Orders respecting y® prices of 
Articles to be read 3. Days successively — & y^ General positively 
forbids Officers or Soldiers giving more than y^ Rates for any 
Articles — disobedience will be treat'd with no kind of Lenity. 

Prices for Washing and Ironing, y*= following Articles of 
Cloathing, are as follows: 

A Shirt & Stock 16 Lawful Money 

Woollen Westcoats or Breeches 154 

Linnen D° 14 

Stockings pF pair 13^ 

Handkerchiefs 11 

Overhauls 15 

Blanketts 16 

pair Sheets 19 

Table Cloths, Towels, &c; in proportion to y« above prices 
For making, y^ following Articles of Cloathing — 

I. Uniform Coat with Lining 7/. 

I . D? D? without Lining 5/. 

I. Waistcoat 2/. 

I . Pair Breeches 2/6. 

And other Cloathing in proportion to y« above station'd Articles, 
y^ above work for Officers — But for non-Commission' d officers 
Privates, only 5^ of y« Same respectively. 

Head Quarters Sepf 20**^ 1777 
Parole — C. Sign. 

L* Co' Olney ) 

B. M. Alden > Officers of y« Day. 

Adj^ Waterman ) 

A Court Martial is appointed to set on Monday next at y« 
Widow Warren's 9 oClock in y^ Morning, Col Greene President, 
3. Cap^s — 6. Subs, from Genl Varnums Brigade — i. Cap* & 2. 
Subs from Genl Huntingtons Brigade to be Members. 

The General Observes that y« Troops frequently in their 
Marching, march in Single, or double Files, which besides 
making an unsoldierlike appearance, is ill adapted on many 
accounts to actual Service — Orders that in this departm* they 
march by Divisions whenever y^ Ground will admit of it. 

'Possibly the last five items should be /3, /i, etc., i. e., 3d, id, etc. 



Appendix II 261 

Brigade Orders 
, The Serj's & Corporals to parade every morning at lo. oClock 
at y« Generals Quarters for exercise — The Drum Majr of Co^ 
Sherburn's Regim* to do duty as Drum Majr to Genl Varnum's 
Brigade until further orders — & to be obey'd as such. 

Col. Angel's Regim*.^ Details. 
C. S. S. C. DF. P. 
Guard — o.. i.. 3.. 2.. 2.. 44 

Fatige — I 

Court Martial i. i 

Camp N? 2. Sept^ 20*^ 

Regimental Orders 

A Regimental Court Martial to set at 10. oClock this Morning 
for y* trial of such prisoners as may be brot before them to con- 
sist of I. Cap* & 4. Subs. 

Israel Angell Col 



At a regimental Court Martial held according to y° Above 
Order, Cap* W? Potter President — Caleb Eddy of Cap* S. Olney's 
Compy was try'd on a charge of Stealing, a Pocket Book con- 
taining 4. Dollars and. \V. Lawfull Money from Jn° Elliot of 
S4 Compy. — found Guilty, and Sentenc'd to receive 50 Lashes 
on his Naked Back — and to refund y^ Money again, with y« 
Addition of six Shillings Lawful for y« Pocket Book — y« whole 
Amount being £1 ii^. to be stop'd out of his next pay. 

The Col approves y^ Sentence of y« Court Martial, & orders 
y^ Corporal punishment therein appointed to be inflicted this 
afternoon at 4. oClock in presence of y^ Regim* 

Israel Angell Co} 



Camp N? 2. Sepf 2i«* 1777 

Regimental Orders 

The Orderly Serj* of each Compy. in y^ Regim* who by y« 
Orders of y^ 9*"^ Instant were order 'd to make their returns of 
y® Sick to y^ Co^ are for y^ future to carry them to y« Doctors 
tent. — y^ Returns to be made by 8. oClock — if any of y« S"? Serjts 
shall neglect their duty and not furnish y« Doc*.'' with S^ Returns 
by y^ time afores^, y^ Doctor is required to return their Names 
to y^ Co^ who positively Declares that he will immediately con- 
fine them & have them Tried by a Court Martial for disobedience 
of Orders. 

Israel Angell, Co} 



262 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters 21^* Sepf 

Parole C. Sign 

L* Col Meggs ) 

B. Majr Box [ Officers of y Day. 

Adjt Sheldon ) 

Brigade Orders 

Col Angel's Regiments Details 
S. S. C. DF. P. 
Guard — 2.. 2.. 2.. 2.. 44. 
Fatigue — o.. o.. i.. o.. 5. 

The commanding Officers of Battalions will see that their 
Waggons are kept in good order, that they are furnish 'd with 
Drivers, such as have been encourag'd with hopes of their 
employm* if there are such in y^ Brigade — y^ Horses mus be 
tackled in ye Waggons every Morning at sun rise or sooner, and 
Drove a Mile or more. 

Head Quarters SeptF 22*^^^ 1777 

Parole C. Sign 

Majr Thayer ) 

B. Majr Box V Officers of y^ Day. 

Adjt Holden ) 

Fatigue at y^ Commissaries — c. P. 

G. Varnum — o.. 4 

G. Huntington — i.. 2 



Head Quarters Sepf 23'".'^ 1777 
L* Col Comstock") 

B. Maj' Box y Officers of y^ Day. 

Adju* Johnston ) 

The Muster Master Genl directs y^ pay-Masters of y^ several 
Regiments to send immediately for their Muster-Roils at his 
Quarters. 

Head Quarters SeptF 24*> 1777 
L* Col Prentice ") 

B. M. Alden [ Officers of y Day. 
Adj* Waterman ) 

The Militia of New-York State who are ordered to join y^ 
Army at Peeks-Kill are arranged to General Huntingtons 



Appendix II 263 

Brigade — proper returns are immediately to be made of them — 
and they are to do duty accordingly, with y^ Troops in that 
Brigade — The Waggoners belonging to y« several Brigades & 
Regiments are order'd to parade with their Waggons tomorrow 
Morning at 8. oClock, at y^ D. W. M. Generals in y^ Village, & 
there to receive directions — 12. Masons being wanted in y« Works, 
are ordered to turn out from y^ Continental Troops & Melitia to 
parade tomorrow Morning @ 8 oClock, at y^ Deputy Waggon 
Master Generals ofhce in y^ Village, & there to receive Directions 
from Cap* Stagg. 

Head Quarters Septr 25*^ 1777 
Col Angel ) 

B. M. Box ^ Officers of y^ Day. 

Adjutant Sheldon ) 

At a General Court Martial held at Peeks-Kill Sep* 22^*^ by 
order of Gen'. Putnam — Col Green President — Edward Murphey 
of Cap* Allen's Company, Col Angell's Regim* was try'd for 
deserting y^ service 2. or 3. times — The prisoner found Guilty of 
deserting and sentenc'd to receive 100. Lashes on his naked 
Back, & for inlisting twice this Campaign to be sent on board 
one of y« Continental ships of War, and there to be kept to ser- 
vice during y^ War — Ephraim Seamonds of Cap* Johnston's 
Company in Col Granworth's Regim* — try'd for Desertion — 
found guilty, & order'd to receive 100 Stripes on his naked Back, 
& to be sent on board one of y^ Continental Ships of War, to 
serve during y^ present War — Jos. Cordose of CoJ Angell's 
Regimi*, try'd for leaving his Post and getting Drunk when on 
Sentry at y^ main Guard — The Court in consideration of his 
being a Portugeeze, & having never been in y^ Land service 
before. Order y^ prisoner to receive only, 50. Lashes on his 
naked Back — W"? Mathews of Cap* Thompson's Company in 
Col Willis Regim* try'd for deserting, & enticing one of his 
fellow Soldiers to desert — Also threatning to desert to y^ Enemy 
in case he should be punish'd — The Court find him Guilty & 
order him to receive 100. Lashes on his Naked Back, & to be 
return'd to his Station on board y^ Galley from which he deserted. 

The General approves y« Sentence of y^ Court Martial, 
respecting y^ several Prisoners therein mention'd, & orders y^ 
same to be put in Execution tomorrow Morning at 8. oClock — 
Jos. Owens of Cap* Talbut's Company — Col Green's Regim* — 
try'd for being a Robber, & Spy from y^ Enemy, & coming out 
with noted Robbers from N. York — The Court being fully con- 
vinc'd of ye Criminal Conduct of y^ Prisoner unanimously 
Judge him Guilty of y^ Charges, and give Sentence Capital — To 
Suffer ye Pains of Death. 



264 Orderly Book 

The General having maturely consider'd of y« Judgment 
which is Capital — also of y^ atrocious Nature of y« Prisoners 
Oflfence, which demands Speedy, Exemplary Punishm* — the 
General approves y^ Sentence — And Orders that y^ Said Jos. 
Owens be caus'd to sufer y^ pains of Death by being Shot untill 
he shall be dead, dead, dead & y^ Lord have mercy on his Soul — 
To be put in Execution on Friday y^ of Ocf Next, on Gallows 
Hill between y« Hours of 9. & 11 oClock in y« Morning — Jos: 
Mitchel try'd for deserting found not Guilty & to be discharg'd 
& have Liberty to pass to his family — The General Approves of 
y^ proceedings of y^ Court, & orders it to be immediately done — 
The men who are order'd on Board y^ Ships, are immediately 
to be sent on Board after receiving their punishm* 

The Waggons and Teams that were order'd yesterday to 
parade at y^ D. W. M. General are order'd to do so every Day 
untill further orders. 

Brigade Orders 
The General observes two omissions of Duty very inconsist- 
ant with y^ Nature of y^ Service — The first is — The Officers do 
not pay that attention in marching their Men regularly from y* 
Brigade Parade, to their respective Guards which y^ General 
Orders require — The other is — The old Guards are suffer'd to 
march home, after being reliev'd in a straying manner as they 
please — No Officers in y^ Brigade can plead Ignorance of his 
duty in these Respects — it is therefore expected in future greater 
regard be paid to these particulars, & that no Guard be dis- 
charg'd upon y« Parade where it was made up. — , & that y« 
Same Regard be paid to order in marching home y^ Old Guard 
as in marching of y«= new Guard. 

Head Quarters March 26*.** 1778 
Att a Division Court Martial Where of Major Johnson was 
president March 15: 1778 Lieu* Davis of Co} Angells Reg* (he 
Consenting Thereto) tried for Swearing the Eavening of the 
Second Is* After Being Warned for duty, that if he Could Not 
Git Rid of that Tower of Duty he Would Feign himself Sick for 
he Was Determened Not To Do it, and Would Suffer himself 
to be Casheard With Infamy before he Would go and [for?] 
Refusing the Tower Accordingly the Court after the most 
Mature Deliberation Unanimously Judged Lieu* Davis Guilty 
of a Breach of the 21 Artical of the [24?] Section of the Article 
of War and Sentence him To be Discharged the Service as Or- 
dered In Said Artical — His Excelency The Commander In Chief 
Approves the Sentence and Orders it to Take place Immediately. 

End. 



Appendix II 265 



II' 

[Extracts from three Orderly-books kept in Col. Angell's 
Regiment, nth July, i779-6th June, 1780.]^ 

Extracts from General Washington's Orders: 

May 12*^ 1779 

The Hon'ble : the Congress having been pleased by a Resolve 
of the 2g^^ of March last, to establish a system of regulations 
for the order and discipline of the Troops of the United States — 
The Commander in Chief flatters himself that all Officers im- 
pressed with the importance of a regular system of Maneuvres 
& discipline will zealously employ themselves to become thor- 
oughy acquainted with these regulations, & with all possible 
punctuality & dispatch to put them in practice within the 
limits of their respective Commands — To forward this desirable 
purpose, the Inspector Genl will immediately enter upon the 
Exercise of his Office as established by Congress, & the Genl 
relying upon his Zeal & intelligence, of which he has already 
given proofs, & the laudable spirit of emulation which prevails 
throughout the Army doubts not that we shall meet with success, 
equal to our warmest wishes The Inspector Genl will take care 
that Copies of the Regulations are distributed to all the Regts, 
one for each Officer, who is to be answerable for the Copy he 
receives, & in case of his quitting the Regt he is to deliver it up 
to the Commanding Officer; He will also give the necessary 
instructions to the Sub-Inspectors or Majors of Brigade relative 
to the duties they are to perform He will see that an uniform 
formation takes place forthwith in the several Regts & whenever 
he perceives a Regiment so reduc'd as not to be able to turn out 
under arms, the number prescribed for forming a Battalion, he 
is to report the same to the Commander in Chief, that the neces- 
sary arrangements may be made accordingly. 

For the present the Battalions are to be divided into eight 
Companies from which the Comp'" of Light Infantry will here- 
after be draun — He will visit by turns the different Regt^ at the 
hours of Exercise & see that everything is conducted in strict 
conformity to the regulations — He will at all times pay particu- 
lar attention that the Service of the Guards be performed with 
the greatest exactness. 

' The entries in this section cover the period 6th July to 27th September, 
1779, inclusive. The first pages of the book are lost. 
' Originals in possession of Mr. H. I. Angell. 



266 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters Providence ii^^i July 1779 
Extract from Genl Washingtons Orders of the 20*^^ June 1 779 : 

Duty of Brigade Majors — The great importance of the duties 
of Majors of Brigades rendering it necessary that those posts 
should be at all times, fill'd with old & experienced Officers, the 
Hnble the Congress did on the 18^*^ of Feb^ last Resolve that the 
Majors of Brigade should be chosen by the Commander in Chief 
from among the Majors in the Line, & that the duties of Brigade 
Inspector should be also annexed to that office — They are at 
all times to consider themselves subject to the orders of the 
Officers Commanding the Brigades to which they are respectively 
attached, & are to receive their instructions relative to the 
Department from the inspector Genl — They are to remain on 
all occasions with their Brigades whether on a march, in Camp 
or Quarters, & not with their Brigadiers as was formerly practised. 
They are to keep the Details of their respective Brigades & see 
that everything prescribed in the new regulations is carried into 
execution with the greatest exactness. 

They are to be present at the formation of all Guards & De- 
tachments sent from their Brigades, to see they are found agree- 
able to the rules establish'd 

They are to receive the Genl Orders from the Adjt Genl. & 
those of their Division from the Sub : Inspector, both which they 
are to communicate to their Brig^ Genls., and having added 
those he may issue to the Brigade, communicate the whole 
through the Adj*^ to the several Regts in their respective Brigades. 
They must pay particular attention that all orders are distributed 
with the greatest exactness & dispatch, & if from sickness or any 
other cause a Major of Brigade is prevented from attending for 
orders, he must cause the Brig"" Genl to be inform'd thereof that 
another Major or the eldest Capt may be order'd to perform 
the duty — 

In Camp the Majors of Brigades will have an Orderly Serjt 
from their Brigades to communicate their Orders — 

If any extraordinary Orders should Issue — the Adjt Genl 
will send a Copy to the nearest Brigade Major, noting on the 
order the hour he sent it & the course it is to take. The Maj'" of 
Brigade who receives it havin taken a Copy will immediately 
dispatch it to the next Brigade, first noting the hour he rec^ it 
& sent it forward, & signing his name — and so throughout the 
different Brigades as noted on the orders, the last Brigades 
Major returning it immediately to the Adjt Genl — These Orders 
are to be immediately communicated to the Commanding 
officers of Brigades & Regts in the same manner as the daily 
Orders, & by one of the Brigade Majors in turn to the Sub: 



Appendix II 267 

Inspector who will immediately communicate it to the Genl 
commanding the Division 

Whenever a Major of Brigade leaves his Brigade either to go 
for Orders or any other purpose, he must leave an Adjt of the 
Brigade to perform his duty in case any Orders should come to 
his Brigade during his absence. 

The Majors of Brigade must every o[ne] regulate their 
watches by that of the Adj* Gen!, that the different beats may 
begin & the guards be turn'd out at the same minute. The 
Brigade Major of the day will attend the formation of all guards 
and detachments in Camp. 

In Action the Major of Brigade will assist the Commanding 
officer of the Brigade in the formation, Manoeuvers etc, of the 
Brigade 

Head Quarters Providence I3'^^ July 1779 

When the Commanding officirs at the several out Posts, 
send officirs to Providence they are desired to direct those 
officirs, to call at the Adj* general's office, & take copies of the 
Genl Orders which are daily issued. 



Headquarters Providence 14*.^ July 1779 

At a Brigade Court Martial held at Updikes Newtown on 
the 12^^ In* of which L* Colo. Olney was President, John Deruce 
of Colo. Angells Reg'* was try'd for deserting to the Enemy, & 
conveying with him a Guard Boat, the prisoner being brought 
before the Court plead giulty, the Court therefore sentence him 
to suffer death, the Genl approves the sentence of the Court — . 
Joseph Thrasher of Colo: Angells Reg* try'd by the above Court, 
for desertion, found giulty & sentenced to receive one hundred 
lashes on his bare back — the Genl approves the sentence & 
orders the punishment inflicted immediately 

Head Quarters Providence 21 July 1779 

The Genl congratulates the Army upon the glorious success 
of Brigadier Genl Wayne & the gallant troops under his Command 
in taking by assault the Enemy's fortified post at Stony Point, 
with the point of the bayonet alone forcing the Garrison to sur- 
render at discretion, not one man escaped — This signal & bril- 
liant Victory was gaind with the loss of but four Men kill'd, 
& the Genl & fifteen men slightly wounded; while on the part 
of the Enemy, fine hundred Soldiers & twenty Officers were 
killd wounded & taken prisoners, with all their Cannon, Arms 
Military Stores & Provisions. 



268 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters Providence 22".^ July 1779 

Colo: Bartons troops to march immediately to Pawtugett 
with their Camp Equipage. 

Head Quarters Providence 24*^ July 1779 

In consequence of an order of Congress that each Soldier 
who enlisted to serve during the war before the 23^ of Jan:' 
last shall receive a gratuity of one hundred dollars — the Com- 
manding Officers of Regiments & Corps in the eastern depart- 
ment, are directed to make out an exact Return of the names 
of all such men including the Non Commiss4 Officers. These 
Returns to be wrote in a fair correct manner distinguishing the 
respective Companies and to be immediately deliverd to Major 
Andrew Brown Commisary of Musters who is to take the Mus- 
ters in future at Providence. Artificers are not to be included in 
the above mentioned Returns For the future the Commanding 
officer on board the Galley is to examine all boats and Vessels 
passing from Providence down the Bay. He will when refrac- 
tory, oblige them to bring too, & send the Skippers under a guard 
to the Genl. 

Head Quarters Providence 3? August 1779 

The Issuing Commissary is to order three days fresh meat 
three days salt meat & one days salt fish to be issued to the 
troops weekly untill further orders. 

Head Quarters 6*^ August 1779 

The Genl is astonished to be credibly inform'd that a boat 
from Bristol, after the moon was up, rowed to this town from 
Warren, without being hail'd by any of the Sentries, Guard 
boats, or from any one of the Posts between that place & Provi- 
dence, & even when there was not noticed by any Centinel or 
Guard — Every officer & Soldier last night upon duty, both 
afloat & on shore must take shame to themselves for this remis- 
sion of duty — To prevent the like in future & to wipe off a stain 
of so unmilitary a dye — the Genl expects the utmost vigilance & 
alertness, will constantly and immediately be observed by every 
Officer & Soldier in this Army — If the Rounds Patrols Guards 
Boats & Centinels do their duty, complaints of this kind will 
never be made; Officers should consider there are few worse 
Crimes than that of suffering themselves to be surprised upon 
their Posts, & the Genl has that confidence in them to beleive 
this short reproof will be sufficient to cause every benefit wish'd 
for from their watchfulness on duty. 

When the General came to this Command he endeavoured to 



Appendix II 269 

provide for the Troops all the comfort which circumstances 
would admit, & to prevent the least plausibility of excuse for 
such depredations and tresspasses as are but too often com- 
mitted on gardens & inclosures adjacent to Garrisons or encamp- 
ments, the respective Corps of the Army were enabled to cul- 
tivate Gardens for supplying themselves with a sufficiency of 
vegetables and the inhabitants chearfully accommodated them 
with convenient lots for that purpose, besides this indulgence 
the most effectual measures have been adopted for issuing to 
the Soldiers a reasonable quantity of Roots Greens etc — Not- 
withstanding the Genls attention to provide for the troops, the 
inhabitants frequently complain to him of trespasses wantonly 
committed on their lands by the Soldiers. 

To prevent therefore such abuses the criminality of which 
is aggravated by ingratitude, the Genl solenmly declares that he 
will not pardon any person under his command who shall be 
convicted of theft or trespass on Fields Gardens or Inclosures 
adjacent to any of the Posts, where the Troops are or shall be 
stationed, but that every such offender shall be punished with 
the greatest severity — 

Head Quarters Providence 9*?* August 1779 

Colo: Jacksons Reg* to march tomorrow morning at day 
Break, the Colo: will see the whole Reg* & the baggage off the 
ground, & will then call upon the Genl at Head Quarters for his 
particular orders and instructions. 

Head Quarters Providence ii*^ Aug 1779 

George Milliman Soldier in the 2"^.^ Rhode Island Reg* try'd 
at a late Genl Court Martial whereof Colo: Jackson was Presi- 
dent for Mutiny is found guilty of the same & sentenced to suffer 
death — the Genl approves the sentence of the Court Martial & 
will order the same to be executed on monday sen night the Adj* 
Genl will acquaint the prisoner with the sentence of the Court 
that he may prepare for Death. 

Providence H. Q., August 25*^ 1779. 

Extract from Gen^ Sullivan's Orders. 

August the 3'? 1779 

The Honour^je ^^e Board of War having been pleased to 
appoint Rulp Pomery Esq. Commissioner to Settle and Pay 
all Arrearages of Cloathing due to the Troops of these States 
for the Year 1777 — The General Directs that the Accompts and 
Rolls required by the Resolve of Congress of the 2'? of March 



270 Orderly Book 

Last and published in orders the 12*.^ following immediately- 
made out and Presented to the Said Commissioner for Settlement 



August 7*> 1779 

It having been found Prejudicial to the Service to Discharg 
Soldiers from the army who are capable of doing Duty in the 
Corps of Invalaids that no Non-commission'd officer or Soldiers 
shall be Discharged without a certificate from the doctor General 
or a Senior Surgeon of the Flying Hospital, or from Some of 
the Principal Surgeons of the General Hospital that he is unfit 
to Serve in the Corps of Invalaids as will as in the field and that 
all Discharges otherwas Granted Shall be Void. 

Those who are certified unfit for Field duty only, the Briga- 
ders or Commandent of Brigade are to give them Transferrance 
to the (Corps) of Invalids in the following manner. 

A B of Regiment being Certified by unfit for field duty 

is hereby Transferred to the Corps of Invalids. 

The men Thus Transferred are to be Sent to the orderly office 
the first monday of every month that they may be Sent under 
Proper officers to those places where the Invalids are Station'^ 

Certificates are to be Sent with them of what Pay and Cloath- 
ing they have Reicd and what may remain due to them. 

Head Quarters 29*.^ Aug 1779 

George Milliman Soldier in Colo: Angell's Regiment Tried 
at a late General Court martial & Sentenced to Suffer Death, is 
further Respited from Execution untill monday the 13*^.^ vSeptem- 
ber 

The Commissaries having that there is an Extraordinary 
quantity of Rum Issued at Some of the Out Posts to regulate 
the allowance in future; The General orders one half gill of Rum 
in the morning to be Issued to the Troops who are under arms 
at Day Break: in very [wheat] weather in the Evening, @ the 
orders & Directions of the Commanding Officer 

Colo Bartons Detach"? Corps of Light Infantry when on 
Command down the Bay are accasionly to draw Provisions at 
any of the Out Posts : when the Colo is in want of Provisions he 
will apply to the officer Commanding the Port: if that officer 
is Superior to Colo Barton The Commanding officers are ordered 
to supply Colo Barton: when inferior, Colo Bartons Return 
Signed to the Commissary is sufficient 

Extract from Genl Gates orders 

W!^ Peck J"" D Adj genl 

[hiatus] 



Appendix II 271 

. . . Martial by which he was tryed the 2>^ Instant for Sleeping 
on his post in an insolent manner found guilty and Sentenced to 
receive fifty Stripes on his Naked back — Nicholas Wilson of 
Capt Aliens C°. tried by the Same Court for Disobedience of 
orders found Guilty and Sentenced to receive thirty Stripes on 
his Naked back. 

The Col° Approves of this proceeding of the Court Martial 
and orders the Sentence put in Execution this Evening at Roll 
Call. 

iil^ 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 6*^^ 1779 
Officers for tomorrow] CaptpHumphrey 

Details as usal 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 7 1779 
Regimental Orders 

Officers for the day tomorrow^ f T * P kh 

Details as usual 

Head Quarters Providence 7 Sept. 1779. 

Major William Bradford of Colo: Sherburnes Regt is ap- 
pointed Brigade Maj"" & Inspector to Brigadier Genl. Starkes 
Brigade, he is to be Respected accordingly. The Commanding 
officers of the Several Regiments in Genl. Starkes Brigade Will 
Make their Returns immediately to the Genl and not to Head 
Quarters as Usual 

Camp Barbers Height 9*** Sept 1779 

Regimental Orders 

Thos Sweetser of Capt. Stephen Olneys Comp^ Assistant 
forage Master is appointed to act as waggon Master for the 
Regt Untill further orders, and is to be Answerable for the wag- 
gons horses & tackling Belonging to the Regiment in Every 
Respect Excepting Unavoidable accidents 

the Orderly Srgt. in futur are to be Excused from Mounting 
Guard — but are Direct 'd to pay the Strictest Attention to the 

' The entries in this section are from a book of which the covers are lost 
and many of the first pages. The earliest entry is of date of 6th September, 
1779, and the latest 19th November, 1779. 

'For Sept. 9th, Capt. Olney, Ensign Wheaton, 



2'i2 Orderly Book 

discipline of the men in their respective Companyes as they are 
to be answerable to their Capt. or Commanding Officer that their 
mens Cloaths arms ammunition & accoutrements are in the 
best order they Must parade all guard and Detachments 
furnished by their Comp" examine their arms accoutrements & 
dress before they bring them on the parade 

Should anyone neglect Complying with this order they may 
expect to abide the Consequence. 

At a Regt Court Martial held in Camp this Day Whereof 
Capt. W"' Humphry was President, was try'd Stephen Jones 
Hazard of Capt. Tews Company Charged with Sleeping on his 
post When a Centinel found guilty and Sentenced to Receive 
Sixty Stripes on his Naked Back. The Col Confirms the Sentence 
and orders it put into Execution this Evening at Roll Call 

Camp Barbers Height lo*^ Sept 1779 
Alexander Stuart Who was a Late sergeant in Capt. C 01- 
ney's Co. is again at the Request of his Capt. Restored to his 
former Rank and is to be obeyed and Respected accordingly 
William Thomas a Late Corporl in 3^^ Compr. is also Restored to 
his former Rank and to be obeyed accordingly. 

I Angell Col. Cd. 

Camp Barbers Height Septr 10*^ 79 

Officers for the Dav I ^^P^' Stephen Olney 
Officers tor tne uay | -g^^^ Qreenman 

Resolves of Congress,* in G. O. Sept. 7, 1779 

August 18*^ 1779 
Resolved : 

That Untill further Orders of Congress the Officers of the 
Army be intitled to receive Monthly for their Subsistence 
the following Sum viz^^ 

Dollars 

Each Colonel & Brigade Chaplin 500 

Every Lieut Colonel 400 

Every Major & Regimental Surgeon 300 

Every Captain 200 

Every Lieut, Ensign & Surgeons mate 100 

' Washington in promulgating these Resolves expressed the hope that the 
various States would second the recommendations of Congress and take every 
proper measure to gratify the reasonable expectations of officers and soldiers. 
Congress recommended the several States to make provisions for the men en- 
listed for the war, including half pay for life for officers, and suitable provisions 
for the widows of those that died in the service. These were in addition to the 
Resolve here printed. 



Appendix II 273 

Resolved : 

That Untill further Order of Congress the sum of Ten Dollars 
be paid to every non Commiss'd officer & soldier Monthly for 
their Subsistence in Lieu of those Articles of food Originally 
intended for them and not furnished 

Camp Barbers Height Septr lo*^^ 1779 

A Court of Inquire to sit this Day by order of Colo: Angell to 
examine into the Reason of William Barneys shooting a horse 
of Mr William Condouts When on Sentry and Make Report 
thereon 

re . \ Capt Allen 

officers tomorrow -j g/p.^tt 

Details as usal 

Camp Barbers Height Sept ii*^ 1779 

re ^ T\/r f Capt. Humphrey 

officers toMorrow | l^ Peckham 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 12 1779 

cc . f Lt. Jerauld 

officers tomorrow i tt \/r 

{ Ens Masury 

At a Regimental Court Martial held in Camp this Day 
whereof Capt Allen was President was Tried Corporal Moses 
Purkins of Capt Hughes Company for Stealing Thirty four 
Dollars in money & Some noats of hand to the amount of Sixty 
Pounds from Serjt Curtis found Guilty & sentenced to make 
Good the money and be reduced to a private Centinel & Receive 
Sixty Stripes on his naked back: at the same court was Tried 
John Randal of Lt Col° Olneys Company for Selling Cider 
Contrary to orders found Guilty & Sentenced to Receive Twenty 
Stripes on his naked back 

The Colo approves of the Proceedings of the Court & orders 
the sentences put in Execution this Evening at Roll Call. 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 13 1779 

re i. \ Capt S. Olney 

officers tomorrow i ■[:> ^ 4-^ 
i Ens Pratt 

Details as usal 

At a Court Martial whereof Capt Humphrey was President 
was Tried Corporal Champlain of Capt S Olneys Company for 
absenting himself from his Command at Narrow River Twice 
without Leave & Staying the Largest Part of one day Each Time 
also for Leaving Camp Yesterday about 12. oClock & not 
18 



274 Orderly Book 

Returning untill 9 at night without Leave found Guilty & 
sentenced to be Reduced to a Private Centinel and do duty as 
Such & Receive Sixty Stripes on his naked back the Colo approves 
of the Proceedings of the Court but as the Court Recommended 
his Punishment to be Suspended during his good Conduct in 
future the Colo: is pleased to grant it, but assures Chaplain 
should he attempt Taking Such Liberties in future The Stripes 
will be immediately Inflicted 

George Clarke fife Major is for Repeated Disobedience of 
orders & In Attention to duty is Reduced and ordered to Join 
Capt S Olneys Co. as a fifer — and Joseph Dexter of the above 
mentioned Co. is Promoted to a fife Major & to be respected as 
Such 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 14 1779 

Officers tomorrow i t ... a /r u 

( Lt. Macomber 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 15, 79 

Officers tomorrow | Capt Humphrey 
( Lt. Peckham 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 17*^ 1779 

r\rc , f Capt. C. Olney 

Officers tomorrow i t7„ V, 

( E^ Rogers 

The Troops are to Parade at the first dawn of the day till 
further Orders The Taptoo to be beat at Eight oClock, after 
which the Officers of the day & officers of the Guard in Camp 
will see that the Troops are all Still in their Tents, and all Lights 
to be put out in Camp at nine oClock. The Countersign to be 
given out in Camp immediately after Taptoo Beating and the 
out Guards as soon as Daylight is gone, and after ten oClock no 
Person is to be admitted to pass with or without the Counter- 
sign; without the Encampment Except the officers of the day 
and Guards 

at a Regimental Court martial whereof Capt Humphrey was 
President was Tried Nicholas Willson of Capt Aliens Co. chargd 
with absenting himself from Camp without Leave and not 
Returning to go on Picquet agreeable to order found Guilty & 
Sentenced to Receive Forty Stripes on his naked back The Col? 
approves of the Proceedings of the Court and orders it put in 
Execution this Evening at Roll Call At the same Court was 
Tried Abraham Rose of Capt Tews Company: for Quitting his 
Post while on Gentry and Suffering the officer of the day to 
Supprise the Guard: found Guilty and Sentenced to Receive 
Forty Stripes on his naked Back, but On Consideration of the 



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■ - . -^v .■> ■ - ^ $> V - *'^- 

Page from Letter-book of Colonel Angell 



Appendix II 275 

Reasons for his Leaving his Post, but a few Steps and his former 
Good and soldierly behavior : The Court was pleased to Recom- 
mend him to the Col? to Suspend his Punishment During his 
Good behaviour. The Col? Confirms the Proceedings of this 
Court and Suspends his Punishment at Present 

Camp Barbers Height Sept i8*^ 1779 
Officers for duty tomorrow ] ^^^ufc^mhl 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 23 79' 
officers tomorrow — Capt Olney 

The Honorable the General Assembly Having Promoted 

En^ Hubbard and Ensign Wheaton to the Rank of Lieut^ in 

Col° Angells Regiment to fill the Vacancies of L* Benedict Tew 

and L* Waterman they are to be respected accordingly L* 

Hubbard to take Rank as such from 'the 18*^ May 1779 L* 

i Wheaton from the 30*^^ of August 1779 Capt Coggeshall Olneys 

' Company of Light Troops to be immediately filled up to full 

Complement by a Draught from the Regiment Taking an Equal 

j proportion from Each Company according to the Bigness of the 

Company and none to Exceed five feet Six Inches in Height 
I David Collor Fifer of foresd Company is for his Inability to 

! service in that capacity Reduced to a private and ordered to 

j take a firelock Instead of a life 

I Camp Barbers Height Sept 22,"^ i779 

I At a Regt' Court Martial Whearof Capt. Stephen Olney was 

j President was tryed John Huza of Capt Aliens Co. for gifting 

drunk and abusing the Sergt of the guard with the Utmost 
I insulting Language found Guilty and sentenced to Receive 

I* Sixty two Lashes on his naked Back At the same Court was 

I tryed Danil Sweet of Majr Theyars Co. Chargd with gifting, 

', drunk, and Leaving his post When on Gentry found guilty 

and Sentenced to Receive one hundred Lashes on his Naked 
Back James Webster and Nathl talor of Capt. Aliens Compy 
both tryd by the same Court for absenting themselves from 
camp one night Without Leave found guilty and Sentenced to 
be piquited the Space of ten minutes each Hosia Crandal of 
Capt. Aliens Com. tryed by the same Court Charged with 
being absent from Camp the twentieth Instant from 12 oClock 
till Eight next Morning without Leave found Guilty and Sen- 
tenced to Receive forty Stripes on his Naked Back the Col° 
approves the proceedings of the Court and orders the Sentences 
too be put in Execution this Evening at Roll Call Except 
Taylor, and Crandal Which is Suspended during their good 



276 Orderly Book 

Behavior & their officers are Directed to keep a Watch over 
their Conduct in futer and Should they attempt to take such 
Liberties or other ways act in disobedience of orders after this 
to immediately put this Sentence in Execution 

I Angell Col. 

Camp Barbers Hill Sept 27*^ 1779 

re £ 4-1. T^ ^. ( Capt C. Olney 

officer of the Day tomorrow | ^^^ ^^ p^^^^ 

[Head Quarters Providence 27 Sept 1779 
A Gen*.' Court Martial to Set at the Court House in Provi- 
dence a Wensday morning next at nine oclock to try all such 
prisoners as shall be brought Before them all evidences & per- 
sons Concerned to attend the Court 
Col?. Elliott President 
L*. C0I9. Putnam & Major Perkins 
With three Captains & three] 
[hiatus] 

Regimental Orders 
As the Promotion of Late in the Regimt. makes it necessary 
for the good of the Service that there should be a new arrange- 
ment of the officers, Lieut Jn° Hubbard is Transferd from Col? 
Angells Co to Capt. Thomas Hughes Lt. Joseph Wheaton from 
Lt Colo Qineys 

(Torn away) 
George Clark a Fifer in Capt Stephen Olneys Comp. is Transferd 
to the Infantry to Join Said C? as fifer the i^^ of Octr. next. 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 28*^ 79 

Officers for the Day tomorrow i -c^ „ o 

-^ ( Ens^^ Roggers 

Extract from General Gateses Orders the 27 of Sept 1779. 

A General Court martial to sit at the Court House in 
Providence on Wednesday next at 9 oClock to Try all Such 
Prisoners as Shall be Brought before them all Evidences & per- 
sons Concerned to attend the Court. 

Col Elliot president Lt Col^ Putnam & Major Perkins from 
Colo Grains Detachment, & Three Captains & Three Subs from 
Colo Tylers Regiment Members. Adjutant Carver (?) to attend 
the Court Any prisoners at any of the out Posts Confined for 
Capatal Crimes are to be sent tomorrow with their prosecuters 
to Providence George Milliman Soldier in Colo Angells Regiment 
Tried at a General Court martial for Mutiny & Sentenced to 



Appendix II 277 

suffer Death, is further respited from Execution untill monday 
the ii*^h Day of Octr next 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 29*1^ 1779 

r^rc u. \ Capt Allen 

Officers tomorrow ] ^t Macomber 

Camp Barbers Height Sept 29**^ 1779 

officers of this Day | Lt ^pe^kham 

at Obdyke Newtown Sept 29 1779 was holden a Brigade Court 
Martial by order of Col Comdt Green of which Major Flagg 
was President Dr. Sam^ Tenny Judge Advocate the Court and 
Judge Advocate Being Sworn. 

According to the articles of war Corp Edward pain of Col° 
Angells Regt was brought before them Chargd with Deserting 
from his Regiment & carrying off with him three privates Soldiers 
Belonging to the Same, also for taking with him a guard boat 
from Bristol & joining the Enemy at Newport Being put on 
his Defense the Prisoner pleaded guilty of the Charge Except 
his Carrying of the three private soldiers and in Extercation of 
his Crime said he should not have Deserted if he had not been 
in Liquor 

the Court Considering the prisoner as a non Commissd 
Officer Who had a Rite in all Cases to command Privates in the 
absence of his Superiors Judge him guilty of the Whole Charge 
& sentence him to be Reduced to the Ranks & Receive one 
hundred Lashes on his Naked Back 

[Part of Regimental Orders, Sept. 30*^ torn away. The name 
Adams occurs.] 

Door Taking him out of his Bead and Carring him away & also 
assuming the Character of Officers The Court find them all Guilty 
& sentence Each of them to Receive One Hundred Lashes on their 
naked Back & Smith to be Picketed for Ten minutes. The Col^ ap- 
proves of the sentences & orders them in Execution this Evening 
at Roll Call Except Crosbys who in consideration of the Recom- 
mendation from the Court and some other Circumstances the 
Col° pardons him & hopes this may be a Warning to him to 
avoid such Villinous Conduct in future, as such will be Treated 
with every mark of Severity. The Col° is astonished to think 
it should be possible for men to be so Lost to every Sense of 
honor, & their own good as to Endeavor to Bring Disgrace & 
punishment upon themselves pain & Trouble upon their officers, 
in the manner that many has of Late, but they must Remember 
that it is their own Seaking and of course have no One to Blame 
but themselves 



278 Orderly Book 

Camp Barbers Hill Octr i^t 1779 

r^cc ^ \ Lt Jerauld 

Officers tomorrow -j Lt. Hubbard 

Joseph Angell of Capt S Olneys Co. is promoted to a Corporal 
& to be respected Accordingly 

At a Regimental Court Martial whereof Capt Humphrey 
was Prest held this Day by Adjournment Was Tried Thomas 
Clark Beriah Clarke Benoni Bishup & John Fisher all soldiers 
in Colo Angells Regt. Charged with going Out of Camp a Little 
after Evening Roll Call without Leave & not Returning untill 
12 oClock or past the Court find them Guilty & sentence Each 
of them to Receive Twenty (Stripes) on their naked Backs 

The Colo Approves of the Sentences yet Ever willing to Ex- 
tend mercy where there is any hopes of Reformation, is pleased 
to Suspend the Punishment of Thomas Clarke Benoni Bishup & 
John Fisher but order Beriah Clarkes punishment Inflicted this 
Evening at Roll Call 

Camp Barbers Hill Octr 4*^ 1779 

^^ ^ f Capt Allen 

Officers tomorrow | En^ Qreenman 

In all probability the Enemy may attempt to Suprise the Troops 
at this Post which makes it necessary for the men to be in readi- 
ness for action at the Shortest notice, and at all Times, no Sol- 
dier in future till further Orders is to Pull of more of his Clothes 
when he Turns in at night, then his Coat hatt & Shoes, on pain 
of being Confined & Tried for a willfull Breach_ of Orders, as 
they may be Called upon at a time when they Little Expect it 
The Col° Strictly Injoines it upon every noncommissioned 
officer & soldier to pay the Strictest attention to this Order as 
it Gives him pain to See his Soldiers Brought to Shame and 
punishment by their folly and Disobedience of orders, he has 
been induced from time to time through the kinder feelings of 
humanity to Extend many a pardon to many Offenders, and to 
his Sorrow He is Convinced that it has not had the Desired 
Effects but Rather to the Contrary, he therefore once for all 
assures Every Non Commissioned Officer & Soldier that no 
Lenity will be shown them in future, but every neglect and willful 
Disobedience of orders Treated with every mark of Severity — 
on the other hand every Soldier who is Obedient to Orders and 
attentive to his duty will not Only mett with the applause of his 
officers and Country but will have every Indulgence Granted him 
that he can have Reason to Expect, or that the good of the 
Service will admit off, and that every Soldier may be Acquainted 
with this Order the Adjutant will read it the four Following Even- 
ings at Roll Call at the same time the articles of war to be read 



Appendix II 279 

Camp Barbers Hill 8*** of Octr 1779 

re ^ \ Cant. S Olney 

officers tomorrow -^ Lt Wheaton 

At a Regimental Court martial whereof Capt Allen was Prs was 
Tried Corporal Samul Grant of Col° Angells Co. Charged with 
absenting himself from Roll Call & abusing his Serjeant with 
insulting Language found Guilty of abusing the Serjeant and 
sentenced to be Reduced to a private Centinel and ask the 
Serjeants pardon 

at the same Court was Tried Edward Chaplain of Capt S 
Olneys Company Charged with being absent from his Guard at 
New Town a Considerable Time found Guilty and Sentenced 
to Receive Ten Stripes on his Naked back The Col° approves 
of the proceedings of the Court and orders the Sentence in 
Execution this Evening at Roll Call. 



Camp Barbers Height Octr 11 79 
Officers of the Day tomorrow { gns ' cl^eenman 

At a Court Martial held yesterday Whereof Capt. WiW 
Humphrey was President Tryed W™ Briggs of Capt. Aliens 
Corny for being absent at Roll Call & Staying out of Camp the 
greater part of the Night — found Guilty and SentenC^ to Receive 
Thirty Strips on his Naked Back. 

the Lt. Colo, approves the above Sentence and Orders it to 
take place this morning at Guard mounting 

yet for Sufficient Reasons he is InduC^ to Suspend the Exe- 
cution of the Sentence during the Prisoners good Behavior he 
now assures him that Should he in Futur Commit a Breach of 
order in any Instance this Sentence Will Immediately be In- 
flicted 

Camp Barbers Hill Octr 12 79 

Officers of the Day tomorrow ] p n p ft 

At a Regtemental Court Martial held the 11*^ Instant Whereof 
Capt C. Olney was President Was Tryed Sergt Dodge of Capt. 
Humphreys Co. Charged with Absenting himself from his guard 
on the 6 Instant When on Com'd at Newton and Neglecting to 
Releave his Sentinentals in Proper time and Letting them Stand 
in the Rain The Charge Not Being supported Sufficiently and 
attended With great Mallice & Design the Court therefore 
order that the Prisoner be Releasd from his Confinement 

the Lt. Col° Confirms the Sentence & orders it to take Place 
this Evening at Roll Call 



28o Orderly Book 

A Court martial held this 12*^ day by adjournment whereof 
Capt C Olney was President Tried Mark Barns, Charged with 
being absent Several Days & nights without Leave and not 
Returning till sent after and Brought to Camp. The prisoner 
pleads Guilty to the Charge Exhibited against him & the Court 
upon Mature Deliberation Sentence him to Receive sixty Strips 
on his naked Back 

At the same Court was Tried William McCall Charged with 
absenting himself from Camp on the morning of the 1 1*^ Instant 
without Leave after being Regularly Warned for duty and not 
attending Roll Call at Troop Beating Likewise for Getting 
drunk and not Returning to Camp untill Sent After 3 oClock 
in the afternoon The prisoner pleads Guilty to the Charges 
Exhibited against him The Court upon Mature Deliberation 
Sentence the prisoner to Receive Fifty Strips on his naked back. 

At the same Court was Tried Anthony Foster Charged with 
Threatening to [strike] Serjeant Whittlesey with a Clubb and 
to Take his life and for Disobedience of Orders The prisoner 
being arrained pleades Guilty to the Charges Exhibited against 
him, whereupon The Court Sentence the prisoner to Receive 
fifty Strips upon his naked back The Lt Col° approves of the 
proceedings of the Court & Orders the sentences put in Execu- 
tion this Evening at Roll Call 

Camp Barbers Hill Oct 13*^ 1779 

Officers tomorrow \ ?f P,^^ ^^^^^ 
I Lt. Macomber 

Extract from General Gates's Orders: 10 Octr 1779 
The Commissary of Military Stores by Illness Resigned his 
office. It is proper that an Exact State of the Stores late under 
his Care, be immediately Taken and the Condition in which 
the Same is Left Carefully examined To that End The General 
Orders Major Perkins, Capt Callander & Capt Lt Paine to be a 
Court of Examination into the State of the Department of the 
Commissary of Military Stores, and finilly to Report their pro- 
ceedings to the Genl. a proper Clerk shall be appointed to assist 
them in their Examination The General further Order Major 
Perkins Capt Callender and Capt Lt Pierce to take Charge of 
the Said Military Stores untill a proper person is appointed a 
Commissary which will be in a few days 

• ••«••• 

A Fleet of men of war & Transports having yesterday ar- 
rived at Newport, and their Circumstances very Strongly In- 
ducing an opinion that the Enemy will Speedily be in motion 
there, either to Act, Offensively against this State or Some of 
the Neighboring States on prhaps in Conjunction with an other 



Appendix II 281 

Imbarcation now Preparing at New York are, meditating Some 
Expedition of Importance. It therefore behoves all the officers 
Commanding Posts Guards or Detachments from this Army to 
be particularly Vigilant and attentive to their duty The General 
requests the officers Commanding at the Out Posts will Instantly 
report to him every Extraordinary movement of the Enemy, 
and exactly Remark the arrivals and Departures of Vessels 

Camp Barbers Hill Oct 14*1^ 1779 
Officers tomorrow jCapt^A^len^ 

A Regimental Court martial whereof Capt Allen was Presi- 
dent was Tried Samuel Thompson of Capt Aliens Company 
Charged with abusing the Grand Rounds with Insulting Lan- 
guage when answered Grand Round Daming them and Ordered 
them to Stand after Standing a Considerable time at his first 
hailing 

The prisoner pleads guilty The Court not Insenciable of 
the heinousness of the Crime, but upon evident Marks of Re- 
pentance upon his Trial do Sentence him only to be Reprimanded 
by the Officer of the Day and ask his Pardon 

Edmond Pimges of Capt Aliens Company Tried at the same 
for sufferings Rounds to Surprise him and Take his Arms from 
him when on Gentry at Newtown 

The prisoner pleades Guilty to the Charges Exhibited against 
him but in his Defense Says, he Left his Coat at Serjeant Hughes 
and being very Coald Stept into the Gentry Box and put his 
arms in the Side of the Same and thinking about his Circum- 
stances the Round, Came behind him & Surprised him 

The Court upon Mature Deliberation do Sentence him to 
Receive Sixty Strips on his naked back, but from his good be- 
havior; & willing to Recommend for Mercy: where there is the 
Least hopes of reformation do accordingly Recommend him for 
Pardon. Corporal Rogers of Captain S Olneys Company arraingnd 
before this Court Charged with suffering Jonathan Doliber to 
Exchange Guards with John Gould & Letting Dolber go with — 
Munrow to Bissells Mill Guard when he was on Guard at Romas 
Point The Prisoner pleads Guilty to the Charge 

The Court Sentence him to be Reduced to a private Centinel 

Mark Barnes of Col° Angells Company Tried at the Same 
Court for going Out of Camp and Staying all night without 
Leave The Prisoner pleads Guilty the Court Sentence him to 
Receive Fifty Stripes on his naked back 

The Col° Confirms the proceedings of the Court and orders 
Thompsons and Rogers to take place this Evening at Roll Call 
and as the Court has been pleased to Recommend Pineger for 



282 Orderly Book i 

pardon the Col° has Granted it to him for this Once, and assures 
him that he is much Indebted to the Gentlemen of the Court 
for the Lenity Shown him. The Col° is for Some Particular 
Reasons Induced to suspend Barnes punishment During his 
good behavior, but assures him that on the first Offense it will 
be Inflicted on him 

Camp Barbers Hill Octr 15 1779 
r^cc ^. f Capt Humphrey 

Officers tomorrow ^Lt Hubbard 



Camp Barbers Hill Octr 16*^ 1779 
re 4. i Lt Jerauld 

officers tomorrow -JLtWaton 
at Court martial whereof Capt. William Humphrey was Presid* 
Was Tried John Thomas & Corporal Daniel Barney Charged 
with Insulting one Mr Joseph Cole on the Road yesterday at- 
tempting to pull him off his Horse and afterwards finding him 
at Mr. John Coles laid Violent hands on him & abused him and 
afterward Returning to Mr John Coles between Eight or Nine 
oClock, in the Evening Laid Violent hands on him a man near 
four score years of age threw him down & shamefully abused 
him, Thomas was found Guilty of the Charges and Sentenced 
to Receive One Hundred Lashes on his naked back: Corp. 
Barney was found Guilty of the Last Part of the Charge, & 
suffering the Other part to be done in his presence & sentenced 
to be Reduced to a private Centinel and Receive fifty Stripes on 
his naked back 

The Col° Confirms the Sentences & orders them put in 
Execution this Evening at Roll Call in presence of the Regiment 
& hopes this may be a Warning to Each Soldier to avoid Such 
Detestable and abominable Conduct which Ever will be Treated 
with every mark of severity 

[Leaf Cut out] 
Colo Livingstons Regiment will Parade tomorrow morning at 
day Light 

[Leaf Cut Out] 
for the use of this Regiment The officers Commanding the 
Continental Regiments will Turn out the whole of their Officers 
& Soldiers of duty every morning at 8 oClock to Erect the 
Batteries Ordered to be Laid Out by the Engineers for the De- 
fence of the Harbour. Intrenching Tools will be sent by the 
D Q Genl where the Troops are to be employed to Destroy 
the Enemies Lines are at Liberty to Burn the abbatis for fire 
wood every officer and Soldier to be allowed a gill of Rum Each 



Appendix II 283 

Day untill further Orders. which is to be DeHverd to orders of 
the Commanding officer of Regiments 

Head Quarters Newport Oct 29*^ 1779 
Field officer tomorrow Maj Huntington 

Details of Guards 

C S S C D P 

Main Guard i 3 3 3 2 60 

North Battery i i i 2 15 

Brentons Neck i i i 2 15 



5 5 5 6 90 



The above Guards to be furnished by General Starks Brigade 
a Sub's Guard to mount at noon at the north Battery and a 
nother at Brenton Neck, they will Receive their orders from the 
Field officer of the day. Capt Carlile with his Company from 
the state artillery is to take Post on Goat Island the Q M Genl 
will provide a Boat at the artillery Warf to Transport the Com- 
pany and their Baggage. The officers Commanding Guards 
next the Harbour are not to Suffer any persons to break up or 
Destroy Wrack, they are to Confine all that are Guilty of any 
waste either public or private Property the under-mentioned 
Persons are appointed by the General as a Committee, to ex- 
aimine persons are in Newport and to take on Exact account of 
all the woolins Linnins Hattes & Salt etc therein Deposited 
The Chairman of the Committee will make his Report to the 
Cloathier General of the army and to the Commissary of pur- 
chases of the Salt. 

Pres'^ Judge Bowler 
Jacob Richerson John Bull 

Robert Cook George Gardner 

Jonathan Easton Sharman Clark 

Job Gardner Job Easton 

J G Wanton Thos. Howland 

Joseph Twidy Robert Taylor 

The Committee is Disired to Extend their Search to Conani- 
cut & R Island after they have Done their Business in Town 
all officers Commanding Guards & Ferries are to suffer no Mer- 
chandize to be Carried from the Island without a Permit from 
the General or Officer Commanding in Newport 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt for the day tomorrow Meigs 
Col Angells Detail 2S 2S 2C 2Df 31P 



284 Orderly Book 

H Quarters Newport 30 Octr 1779 

Field for the day tomorrow Major Thayer 
The Field officer of the day is Disired to Inspect into the situa- 
tion of the Fire Ingineers, belonging to this Town, and make a 
Report thereof to Head Quarters 

Mr Jacob Weed is appointed Issuing Commissary to General 
Starks Brigade 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt tomorrow Waterman 

the Drum & fife to Beat of the Guard from Col? Angells 
Regiment 

Orderly Serg from Col° Angells Regt 

C S S C DfP 

Details Col Angells Regt i 2 2 2 2 31 

Webb I I 2 2 30 

Sherburne 2 2 i 2 29 

H Quarters Newport Oct 31 

Field officer for the day tomorrow Colo Sherburne 

Details for Guard 

C S S C Df P 
Main Guard i 3 3 3 2 60 

Brentons Point i i i 2 15 



I 4 4 4 4 75 

B Orders 



Adjt for the day tomorrow Rusell Orderly Sergt from Col° 
Sherburnes Regt Colo Sherburnes Regiment furnishes the Drums 
& fife for Parade tomorrow 



Detail 


C 


S 


S 


c 


Df P 


Sherburn 




I 


I 


I 


2 


24 


Angell 




2 


2 


I 




26 


Webb 


I 


I 


I 


2 


2 


25 



I 4 4 4 4 75 

Adjutant Waterman is to Strictly attend his duty in all 
points whatever, and keep his orderly book with him as not to 
suffer any villin to scribble on the same.' 

' In hand writing of Colonel Angell. The preceding pages have the names 
Mehetabel W. Angell, Isaac Angell, etc. 



Appendix II 285 



Head Quarters Nov i^* 1779 

Field officer for the day tomorrow Col° Angell 

Details C S S C Df P 

Main Guard i 2 3 3 2 60 
Brenton Point 11 15 



I 2 4 4 2 75 
Brigade Orders 



Adj tomorrow Meigs 
Details C S S C Df P 

5 I I I 2 24 
W 21 2 25 
A III 26 

Head Quarters Newport Nov 2 1779 

Field officer for the day tomorrow L* Col° Olney Details as 
yesterday Captain Carr of Col° Tophams Regiment with Two 
Subs four Sergeants 4 Corporals 2 Drums & Fifes and 40 privates 
from General Cornells Brigade to Take the Charge of the Boat 
in and about Newport Harbour, a Sub Serj 2 Corporals. & 14 
privates from General Cornells Brigade to be Stationed at 
Bristol Ferry The officer will Receive his Orders from D Q M 
General Col° Bowen General Cornell will Detach Col° Tophams 
Regiment to Collect all the public Boats from Bristol Tiverton 

6 together at Howlands Ferry, and will order them Hailed up 
and Secured at such place near said Ferry as He may think 
Proper When the Boats are Collected Genl Cornell will order 
suitable Guard, to take Care of them a Corporal & three men to 
be sent from Genl. Cornells Brg'^ Daily to take Charge of the 
fuel at Brinton Neck. 

The Field officer of the day will immediately after being 
Releived make Report of his Tour to the orderly office 

Colo Webbs Regiment will not Do any Duty tomorrow nor 
the Day after 

B Orders 

Adj for the Day tomorrow Waterman the Ajt of the day will 
bring on parade all the Drums & Fifes of his Regiment also an 
orderly Serjeant from the Same Regiment to attend at the 
Brigade Orderly Office 

Details C S S C Df P 

S 122 34 

A I I 2 2 2 41 

I 2 4 4 2 75 



286 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters Newport Nov 3 1779 
Field officer tomorrow, Major Huntington 

Details for Guards 

C S S C Df P 

I 2 3 3 2 60 

Brenton Point i i 2 2 20 

Colo Greens Regiment will immediately Embark for Goat 
Island The D Q M General to furnish them with Boats they will 
Take the Duty their instead of Col° Sherburns Regiment Col° 
Sherburns Regiment will do the fatigue duty on Brentens Neck 
till further Orders 

Head Quarters Neport 4 Otr [Nov] 1779 

P New London C Sign — Hartford 

Field Officer for the day tomorrow Major Thayer 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt for the day tomorrow Waterman 
Details as yesterday 

HeadQuarters Nport Nov 5 1779 

The guard to be furnished by General Cornells Brigade, Those 
officers who have Boots & Shoes from public Service Store in 
this Department and have not yet settled therefor, are directed 
to Call on Col° Gardiner Commissary of Hides and settle the 
same Col° Jacobs is to do the duty of Officer of the day this day 
in Lieu of Major Thayer who is under marching Orders 

The Continental Regiments and Col° Grains artillery are 
to be Ready to embark as soon as the weather moderates and 
Cross the Bay to East Greenwich. Brigadier General Stark will 
be with the Troops and Conduct their march from thence 

The D Q General Col° Bowen will Order Vessels & Boats 
prepared for the Transportation of the Troops & Bagagge etc. 

Green wich 9^^ I779 
General Orders 

the troops to March in two Divisions for Hartford the first 
division Consisting of Webbs & Livingstons Regt. to march at 
Sun rise tomorrow morning to bowens tavern; the 2*^ Consisting 
of Greens Sherburns & Angells Regt to March thirsday morning 
for the Same place; the first Division will be joined at plainfield 
by Col° Jacksons Regt. Who are then to march with and belonged 



Appendix II 287 

in that Division the Genl will himself be with the first division 
& Genl Starks with the 2^ their is a Magazine of provision near 
bowen tavern and another at wendham so the officers Command- 
ing Regt need only Draw as much as will serve them from one 
Magazine to the other in Case Col^ Livingston Regt. Cannot 
Joine this day they are to March by the Rout of next and join 
the Division at Hartford Capt Donald Capt Edwards & Capt 
Callender Comp^^ of Artillery to march with six pounders 
With the first Division & Capt Cooke & Capt Peirce Comp^^ 
with the Other two six pounders are to march with the 2^ Di- 
vision the Ammunition to be proportioned accordingly 
Rout by which the troops to move to Hartford 

from green wich to bowings tavern 15 

to Eastons at plainfield 15 

to Craryes at Windham 15 

to the Meeting house at Bolton 15 

to Hartford 15 

75 

East Greenwich 10 November 1779 
General Orders 
Parole Norwich C Sign — Worcester 

The Second Division of the Troops to march tomorrow 
morning at Sunrise — 

Hartford Novemr 15*^^ 1779 

The troops that Arrived yesterday will be prepaird to march 
at the Shortest Notice those which arrive this day will Halt 
tomorrow and after that will Likewise be prepaird to march 
when Ordered. The artillery will also march as they arrive and 
Encam(p) on the Ground with Col° Jacksons Regiment — They 
will also have everything in readiness for a march, as they will 
for the future march together, it will be necessary they Should 
Encam(p) together to morrow a proper Spot of Ground will be 
appointed for that purpose 

The Commanding officers of Regiments will apply by their 
Q Masters to Col^ Hubbard D Q M. G for this allowance of 
Forage & fuel 

A Guard of one Sub i Sergt. One Drum & Eighteen R & file 
will Mount immediately in the Town The officer will Receive 
his Orders from the D Adj General 

Hartford November 16 1779 

The whole of the Troops to march tomorrow morning at 8 
oClock (Col° Greens Regiment Excepted) for Southington 



288 Orderly Book 

Col° Greens Regt will march as soon as Convenient this Day 
The Commanding officer will conduct them by the most Conveni- 
ent Rout to Newport The Regiments of artillery are this Evening 
to draw Provisions to Last them untill the 19*^ In^. Inclusive 
The Commissary to Issue hard Bread & Salt Provisions for 
three days in Pack 

Hartford November ly**^ 1779 

The Severity of the weather preventing the Troops marching 
this Day, they are to march tomorrow morning at Sunrise for 
Southington Such as are not Victualled to Saturday Inclusive, 
must draw immediately for that day 



Danbury November 23'^ 1779 

B.C. a Serjeant Corporal & 12 Privates from Colo Livingstons 
Angells & Jacksons Regiments to parade at the General Quarters 
at four oClock this afternoon 





S C P 


Livingston 


1—3 


Angells 


I 4 


Jackson 


5 



-12 



Commissary Weed is directed to deliver the Back allowance of 
Rum, due to the Troops on their march to the 24*^ Instant 
Inclusive & that the Commanding Officers of Regiments Deliver 
Such quantities from time to time as they shall think necessary. 



Head Quarters West Point nov 19*^ 1779 

upon the arrival of the Troops, destined to quarter in Jersey, 
at the Ground upon which they are to hut The place allotted 
for each Brigade will be pointed out by the Q M Genl, who will 
furnish a plan of the Intended erections of the Soldiers hutts, 
in the Construction of which it is Expected that a minute at- 
tention will be paid to the plan as Convencinency health 
and every Good Consequence will result from a perfect uni- 
formity in the Camp, — The Commander in Chief Takes this 
previous opportunity of assuring, that any hut not Exactly 
Confirmable to the plan or the Least out of Line Shall be 
pulled down and built again agreeable to the mode and in its 
proper place 



Appendix II 289 

IV' 

West Point 23d November 1779 

The three years & nine months men who have Engaged to 
Service in other Regiments during the War, are immediately to 
be Transferrd to the Regiments in which they have so Reen- 
listed— Those who have Reenlisted Before the i'^.' Instant, and 
have not yet been Transferred their Transferrances are to be 
dated as of that day In future they are to be Transferred im- 
mediately on Inlisting for the war 

Danbury November 27*.^ 1779 

Adjutant Thomas Rusell of Colo Sherburn's Regiment is 
appointed Aid de Camp to Genl Stark & is to be respected 
accordingly 

Details of the General's Guard 

C. P 
Colo Livingstone i 3 

Colo Angell 4 

Jackson i 5 



i-i 12 



Danbury 28^*' November 1779 

A Standing Guard to General Stark Consisting of one Cor- 
poral & nine Privates to parade this day at four oClock, from 
Colo Livingston Angells & Jacksons Regiments 





C. 


P 


Livingstone 





2 


Angells 





-3 


Jackson 


I 


4 



-1= 9 = 

The Troops to march tomorrow morning by Sunrise Toward 
the place of Cantonment for the main army in the Neighborhood 
of Morris-Town by the Rout of Major Delavans — Compond — 
Kings Ferry — Sufferns — Pompton, etc. The Quartermaster of 
Brigade Captain Tew will go forward, about Seventeen or 
Eighteen Miles, and point out, a suitabl place for the Troops 
to Encamp, tomorrow night. The forag master will Likewise go 

' This section covers the remaining part of the book from which the en- 
tries in section II are drawn. The entries are consecutive from the last in 
section III to that of the lOth February, 1780. Pages are lost at the end of 
the book. 

19 



290 Orderly Book 

forward, and provide a supply of Forage, and have it Conveyed 
to the place Capt Tew shall direct, the Regiment, and artillery 
are this day to draw provisions to Last them untill the V} day of 
December, Inclusive 

The Quarter [Masters] of the Several Regiments will draw 
three days allowance of Rum for the men which will be deliverd 
to them as the Commanding Officers of Regiments shall direct. 

(After Orders) The Brigade is not to march till further Orders. 

Danbury November 30^*^ 1779 

For the future when the Troops are obliged to Receive Rice 
in Lieu of Flower — they will be Indulged, with a Jill of Rum p"" 
man p' day. 

a Brigade Court martial to set tomorrow morning at Ten 
oClock for the Trial of Such prisoners as shall be Brought before 
them. Pres<^ Col° Jackson. 

Danbury V} December 1779 

Regimental Orders 

Thomas Bond and Peleg Helms of Capt. Coggeshall Olneys 
Company, and Edmund Pinneger of Capt. William Allen Com- 
pany are all promoted to Corporal and to be respected accord- 
ingly. 

Danbury Deem 3^1' I779 

The Commissary of Brigade Mr. Weed will issue to the 
Regiments, and artillery this day: provisions to Last them to 
the Seventh Instant Inclusive and for the future will Issue either 
half a peck of Potatoes or Onions to Each man pr week if they 
can be provided. 

Mr Weed will deliver out West India Rum, to the officers 
as usal to the End of this month agreeable to their Rations. 

The Brigade to march tomorrow morning by Sunrise to their 
place of Cantonment agreeable to the Rout laid down in the 
orders of the 28*^ of November Last. 

H<i Q Morris Town 7 Deem"" 1779 

The Honourable the Board of war being Desirous as soon as 
possible to furnish a Register of the army — The Brigadiers and 
officers Commanding Brigades are desired to Cause Returns to 
be made immediately to the Adj* General of all vacancies that 

*Dec. 4, 1779. Danbury. A garrison court martial to sit immediately at 
Starr's Tavern. At a brigade court martial at which Lt. Col. Olney was 
president, James [Gace?| of Jackson's regiment, absent without leave, was 
sentenced to 100 stripes on his naked back, but because of long coniinement, 
his punishment was mitigated. One or two leaves are missing at this point. 



Appendix II 291. 

have happened in their Respective Commands since the late 
Arrangement of the army. 

The Returns must specify the State to which the Regiments 
belong. The Names & Rank of the officers who formerly filled 
the Vacancies, the Time when they happen'd and the Cause 
which Produced them, and in future like Returns are to be made 
monthly. All Resignations, Except such as are made directly to 
Congress, or the Board of War, are to be made to Head Quarters, 
unless when there is a special Authority Granted for Excepting 
them Elsewhere as the irregular manner in which the Business 
has been Conducted in many Cases has produced Great Con- 
fusion — and the General Takes occation here to Express his utter 
Disapprobation of the Conduct of many officers who from Time 
to Time obtain Long Furloughs and after Remaining from the 
army untill they Expire, Resign their Commissions, and in several 
Instances not Till an absence of several months — even beyond 
the Indulgence allowed them. 

Head Quarters Morristown 8 Deem'' 1779 

A very Correct return Signed by the Commanding officers of 
Regiment Compar'd with the muster Rolls, of their respective 
Regiments is to be made immidiately to the Adjutant General 
of the Number of Non Commissioned Officers & Private Soldiers, 
who Stand Engaged for the War, and those whose Times of 
Service, Expire at Different Periods, Specifying the months & 
years of each Class, then to be Digested into Brigade Returns. 
The Adj. General will furnish the forme of the Returns, and make 
a General one The Virginia Line having already made a similar 
One is not Included. 

That the officers may in Turns have the Benefit of a Short 
Leave of absence, during winter Quarters The Maj'' Generals & 
Brigaders or officers Commanding Brigades will Correct a Plan 
in their Respective Commands for answering the most Equal 
and Convenent manner having Reguard as much as the nature 
of the Case will admit to the Circumstances of Individuals, 
But the privilege is to Expire by the first of April, next at which 
Time the general Expects all officers, to be Present with their 
Corps — He also positively injoins that no Regiments may be 
Left, without a Field officer nor any Company without a Commisd 
officer — This Restriction must not be Dispensed with on any 
account. 

The orders of the i6*^ of May 1778 Respecting The Taking 
Soldiers from the army as servants is to be Strictly Observed 
Such Soldiers whos Times of Service Expire between this and 
the first of March next, on Condition of their Reinlisting for the 
War may be immidiately furloughed till the first of April next 



•292 Orderly Book 

the Officers will be Cautious Not to Engage any but those whos 
Characters afford good Reasons to believe they will Comply with 
their engagements, and Return to their Corps at the expiration 
of their Furloughs that the Bounties given them may not be 
Fruitless expense to the Public. 

The General Recals the Particular attention of the officers 
of the order of the 23*^ Sept 1778 founded upon the Resolution 
of Congress of the 11*^ therein Cited and Requires the most 
Particular & immediate Compliance with it for which at this 
Time there is a particular necessity — It is also Earnestly Recom- 
mended to those officers who are intittled to keep Horses when 
the duty of their office will posible Permitt to Send them or Part 
of them to a distance from the army by doing this they will 
Greatly Promote the Service and they may either deliver their 
Horses to the Commissary of Forage to be Subsisted from the 
Public Magazine or they may send them to Such places as they 
think proper and will be Repaid accasionable Expence of their 
Subsistance. 

Doctor Lothinmore being appointed a Senr Surgen in the 
flying Hospital he is to be Respected as Such. 



H^ Quarters Morris Town 9^^ Dec"" 1779 

The whole army to be inspected this month by the Sub 8c 
Brigade Inspectors, who are Carefully to Examine the arms 
accoutrements & Cloathing of Each non Commission'd officer & 
private and to ascertain with as much Precaution as possible what 
Quantity of Each on hand and what will be wanting for the 
Insuing Campaing, Calculating from the 1=^* JanX 1780 to i^* Jan^ 
1 781 — all Cloathing Received or Issued since the first of November 
to be considered as good 

Pompton 11*^ Decmr 1779 

B. O. The Brigade will march tomorrow morning at Sun- 
rise on their Rout toward Morristown. Colo Livingstone and 
Sherburns Regiments in Front Colo Angells and Webbs Regi- 
ments the Left wing Colo Angells in the Rear — Colo Jacksons 
Regiment in the Center — The artillery in front of the whole — 
Taking Care to Keep Sufficient Intervals between the Several 
Regiments as not to incommode each other on their march the 
Front Regiment & artillery will Halt within Two miles of Morris- 
town, tomorrow night — The other Regiments at Such Distance 
from each other as shall be Convenient for Quarters The Brigade 
Quarter master will go forward and point out the particular 
Quarters for the Several Regiments — The Commanding officers 
of Regiments are desired to pay particular attention to their 



Appendix II 293 

men marching and not Suffer them to strole The Brigade will 
this Day draw provisions to the 13*^^ In* Inclusive 

Pampton 12 Decm"^ * 1779 

The Brigade To hold themselves in Readiness to march to- 
morrow morning at Sunrise if the weather be not Stormy — The 
Several Regts and artillery to draw provisins to the I5^^ Int 
Inclusive. 

Head Quarters Morristown Decemr 16 1779 

P. Copenhagen C Signs -j j^Jj^j^^^g^ 

The Brigade will march to the Ground they are to Encamp 
on tomorrow morning by Sunrise — The Brigade Quartermaster 
Capt. Tew direct them to the place The Quarter master of Bri- 
gade will this day Deliver the proportion of Tools for the purpose 
of Building their Hutts to the Several Quarter masters of Regi- 
ments in the Brigade and take their recepts for the same — who 
will be accountable for the number they receive. 
Adj. tomorrow Miegs 

H"? Quarters Decembr I7*^ 1779 

Colo James Livingstons Regiment now in General Starks 
Brigade is to be immediately annexed to General Hands. 

Colo Angells Regiment to Take the ground for Hutting, now 
occupied by Colo Livingstns Regiment — Colo Sherburn & 
Webbs Regiment will Shift ground Colo Jacksons Regiment to 
Continue on the ground they now possess. 

Head Quarters Morristown 18 Deer 1779 

P Westmoreland Countersign \ Typi|„ 

B. O. 

The Field officers of the Brigade are to Send in tomorrow 
at Orderly Time The dates of their Several Commissions and 
those that have not Commissions or dates to their Commissions. 
The Times of their appointment — Adj for tomorrow Williams. 

Head Quarters Morris Town 19*^ Decf 1779 

Clintons and Hands Brigades gives the main Guard tomorrow. 
A Corporal and six men from General St Clere's Division to be 
sent to the Forage Master Generals Quarters this afternoon, with 
their Blanketts and three days provisions, they are to drive Horses 
to Pennsylvinea; A sub, 2 serj's & Forty Rank & file from the 
Maryland line, to parade tomorrow morning at 9 oClock on the 



294 Orderly Book 

right of Clintons Brigade for fatigue, they are to take their 
Dinners with them. 

The General Court Martial appointed the 2g^^ of May last, 
for the Trial of Major General Arnold, whereof Major General 
How is President, is ordered to meet at Town at the 20**^ Ins*^ to 
Resume the Trial, The Court will consist of Major General 
How President Brigadier General Maxwell vice Brigadier Wood- 
ford absent, B. General SmallwoodB. Gen^ Knox, B. Gen^ Stark 
vice Evin challenged, Col° Bradly vice Col° Wood absent, 
Humpton vice Harrison absent, Hall Sunby, Courtland vice 
Moyland absent, Hagin vice Richard Butler challenged, Dayton 
vice Pokin absent, Sherburne vice Harm absent. 



21 Dec 1779 Morristown H Quarters 

Brigade Majr for the day tomorrow Davidson 
a Detachment to parade tomorrow morning at 10 oClock (in 
the Field between the Pennsylvania & New York Encampments 
which is assigned for a Grand Parade) with Two days Cooked 
provisions & 40 Pounds p"" man— Lt Colo Dehart to take Com- 
mand he will apply to Head Quarters for orders this afternoon — 
Major Tory for the Detachment. The Connecticut Line gives 
the Main Guard tomorrow 



Detail for Detachment 



c 


s 


S 


C 


DF 


P 




I 


I 
I 






22 
21 




I 


I 

I 

I 






19 

22 
17 


I 


12 


3 


2 


I 


23 


I 


I 


2 


2 


I 


18 


I 


I 


2 


2 


I 


20 


2 


I 


2 


2 


I 


24 



I®* maryland Brd 
2 D° 

1 Pennsylvinia 

2 D° 

1 Connecticut Brg« 

2 Do 
Maxwells Brigd 
Hands D° 
Clinton D^ 
Stark D° 

5 7 15 14 4 200 

Lt Colo or Major from the Connecticut Line to Join the 
Light Infantry immidiately. 

H^ Quarters Morristown 22 1779 

One Sub 2 sergeants and Forty Rank & file for fatigue to- 
morrow at the Orderly Room from the Connecticut Line. 

B O 
Adj* for the day tomorrow Williams 
Capt Humphrey of Colo Angells Reg* is appointed to Inspect 



Appendix II 295 

the Building of the Hutts in the Brigade — he is to be obeyed 
accordingly — One man from each Regiment to Relieve the Guard 
over the Ammunition Waggon, the Corporal from Colo Sher- 
burn's Regiment — The Adjt of the day will pleasd to se it 
Relieved this Evening. 

After Head Quaters Orders 
The General Court Martial whereof Major General How is 
President to sit tomorrow morning at lo oClock at Noices Tavern, 
Col° Jackson is appointed a member of the Court martial vice 
Col° Hagin — and Lt Col° Commandant Wiessenfels vice Col. 
Humpton absent on command. 

[Seven leaves are here torn from the book.] 

Head Quarters Morristown Dec 31 1779 
P. Spain Countersigns — Madrid 

— Cadix 

The Maryland Line gives the main Guard tomorrow — 
General St Clears Division give the fatigue tomorrow for the 
Orderly Room 

In Congress December 23'? 1779 Resolved that Instead of 
the Subsistance allowed by act of Congress of the 18*^ of Febery 
Last, to the officers in the Department of the Field Commissarys 
of military Stores. 

The following Sums to be allowed to the Field Commissary 
400 Dollars pr month The Deputy Field Commissary 300 Dol- 
lars p"" month to a Conductor 100 Dollars and to a Cleark 100 
Dollars pr month and this Increas'd Subsistance Commence the 
Eighteenth of August Last and Continue till the further Orders 
of Congress. 

B O 

It having been represented to the General that the Rails 
belonging to the Inhabitants in the Vicinity of Camp have been 
Taken in Great Number by the soldiers of the Brigade The 
General Earnestly request the officers to use their utmost 
Endeavours to put a stop to Such depredations for the future 
Serg Nathan Whittlesey of Colo Angells Reg!^ is appointed Con- 
ductr to the Brigade he is to be respected accordingly, 

Adjt for the day tomorrow Waterman 

Regimental Orders 
Head Quarters Morristown i^* Ja^y 1780 
Parole — Dauphin P S t Puddey 

Details " ' ) Providence 

Lord Sterlings Division furnishes the fatigue Party for the 
Orderly Room tomorrow. 



296 Orderly Book 

Capt Brice of the 34 Maryland Regiment is appointed 
Brigade Major & Inspector to the first maryland Brigade till 
further Orders he is to be Respected & obeyed accordingly 

Head Quarters Morristown Ja"^ 2^ 1780 

Brigade Major for the day tomorrow Church Lord Sterlings 
Division furnishes the main Guard tomorrow the Connecticut 
Line furnishes the fatigue tomorrow for the orderly Room, A 
Detachment to be commanded by Lt. Col? Willet to parade 
tomorrow morning at 9 oClock. 

The Honourable the Congress on the 28*^ of Last December 
when pleased to pass the following act — Resolved that the Rate 
of Postage untill the further order of Congress be Twenty Prices 
upon the Sum paid in the year 1775 — That Single Letters di- 
rected to any officers of the Line and all Letters directed to 
general officers Or to officers Commanding in a separate Depart- 
ment and all Letters to & from the Ministers, Commissioners, and 
Secretaries of these United States at Foring Courts be free. 

Major Talbot for the Detachment. 

Camp Ja^y 2 1780 
Regimental Orders 

Serjeant Curtis of Capt Hughes Company is appointed Q. M. 
Serg* to the Regiment & is to be obeyed accordingly. 

Cerdnid Crish' of Lt. Colo Olneys is appointed Corporal in 
the Company to be respected accordingly. 

Head Quarters Jany 3'".'^ 1780 

All soldiers before they are Discharged from the Service are 
to Receive their full pay Should the Regimental paymasters not 
have Money in their Hands to answer the purpose they are to 
apply to the Deputy Pay Master Genl, who will advance them 
the necessary Terms on an Estimate for one Month. 

At a Division Court Martial in Camp Morristown by order 
of Brigadier Genl. Stark Commandant DeC 28*^^ 1779 Lt Colo 
Huntington President. 

Thos Herendeen Soldier in Colo Angells Regt. was try'd for 
Desertion & found Guilty of a Breach of the first Article of the 
sixeth Section of the Articles of War and Sentenced to Receive 
one hundred Lashes on his naked Back — Christian Myers & 
Philip Wild Soldiers in Colo Henry Jacksons were also try'd for 
Desertion and Severally found Guilty of a Breach of the first 
Article of the Sixth section of the Articles of war and Sentenced 

' Qy. Irish. 



Appendix 11 297 

to Receive one Hundred Lashes Each — The Commander in 
chief Approves the foregoing Sentences. 

John Lewis Soldier in Colo H Jacksons Regt appealing from 
the Judgment of a Regimental Court Martial for Stealing and 
being Drunk on Duty found Guilty of a Breach of the fifth 
Article of the thirteenth Section of the Articles of War and Sen- 
tenced to Receive one hundred Lashes on his Bare Back. 

John McLane & W™ Harper Soldiers in the fourth N York 
Regt. were try'd for Desertion and being absent above twelve 
Months and found Guilty of A Breach of the first Article of 
the Sixth Section of the Articles of War — and Sentenced that 
McLane Receive one Hundred Lashes on his naked Back to be 
Inflicted at four Several times & that Harper Run the Gauntlope 
through the Brigade to which he belongs W"? Potter Soldier in 
Colo Angells Regt. was also tryd for Desertion and Reinlisting 
found Guilty of a Breach of the third Article of the Sixth Section 
of the Articles of War and Sentenced to Receive one Hundred 
Lashes on his naked Back to be Inflicted at four Different times 
Joseph Waterhous Soldier in Colo H Jacksons Regt. also tryd 
by the same Court Martial for Desertion and found Guilty of a 
Breach of the first Article of the sixth Section of the Articles 
of War and Sentenced Unanimously to Suffer Death — Amos 
Rounds a Soldier of the same Regt. also tryed for Desertion 
was found Guilty of a breach of the first Article of the Sixth 
Section of the Articles of War and Sentenced to Suffer Death 
Jesse Pierce Soldier of the same Regt. also try'd for Desertion 
was found Guilty of a Breach of the same Article of the same 
Section of the Articles of War & Sentenced to Run the Gauntlope 
through the Brigade to which he Belongs and be Confind in the 
Dungeon for the Space of one Month on Bread and Water — 
Nathan Barney Soldier of the same Regt. also tryed for Desertion 
was found Guilty of a Breach of the Same Section & Article 
and Sentenced to Run the Gauntlope through the Brigade to 
which he belongs and be Confined in the Dungeon for the Space 
of one Month on Bread and Water. 

John Matthews Soldier of the same Regt also tryd by the 
same Court for Desertion & found Guilty of a Breach of the same 
Section and Article & Sentenced to Run the Gauntlope through 
the Brigade to which he Belongs and be Confined in the Dungeon 
one Month on Bread & Water. W'" Straw Soldier of the same 
Regt also tried for Desertion was found Guilty of a Breach of 
the first Article of the Sixth Section of the Articles of War & 
Sentenced Unanimously to Suffer Death Corpl James Whitney 
of the same Regt also try'd for Desertion was found Guilty of a 
Breach of the same Article & Section & Sentenced to do the 
Duty of a private Centnel & to Receive one hundred Lashes 
on his Bare Back — W™ Harman a Fifer of the same Regt. also 



1 



298 Orderly Book 

tryed for Desertion & found Guilty of a Breach of the same 
Section & Article & Sentenced to Receive one hundred Lashes 
on his Bare Back. 

Peltiah Harmon a Soldier in the same Regt. also tryed for 
Desertion and found Guilty of a Breach of the same Article 8c 
Section & Sentenced to Receive one hundred Lashes on his 
Bare Back. 

Nathaniel Milikin a Soldier in the same Regt also try'd for 
Desertion was found Guilty of a Breach of the same Article 
and Section & Sentenced to Receive one hundred Lashes on his 
Bare Back — Joel Milikin a Soldier in the same Regt. also try'd 
for Desertion found Guilty of a Breach of the same Article & 
Section & Sentenced to Receive one hundred Lashes on his 
naked Back. 

The Commander in chief approves Each & Every of the 
Joregoing Sentences. 

Regimental Orders [Jan. 5, 1780.] 

Corpl Joseph Tanner of Capt. Hughes's Company is promoted 
to a Serjeant in the same Company his Appointment to take 
place from the first of January. 

Adjt. Waterman having obtain'd Leave of Absence til the 
first of April next, Ensign Rogers is appointed to do the Duty of 
Adjutant until his Return and is to be Respected accordingly. 
B After Orders. 

Sam Hines of Cap* Humphrey's Company is promoted to a 
Corporal in the same Company & is to be obey'd as such his 
Appointment to take place from the first of January. 



Head Quarters Jany 6*^ 1780 

WilHam Hutton Late a soldier in the 16*^ Massachusetts 
Regt. is appointed an assistant to the Provost Martial. 
B. O. Adj* for the Day tomorrow Seldin. 

Regimental Orders [Jan. 9, 1780.] 

Two Men to be turn'd out of Capt. Tews Company, for the 
purpose of Biulding his Hutt, Each Day when call d for, untill 
it shall be finish'd. 

Head Quarters Jany 11*'' 1780 

Parole-Union C Sig 1 ^Ts^om 

As Effectual measures are now in execution for Supplying 
the Army — All Detachments & Parties from the Line not sent 
by Genl Orders are to be call'd in Immidiately. 



Appendix II 299 

Brigade Orders 
Adj* for the Day tomorrow Williams. 

Regimental Orders 

Ensign Greenman is appointed to take the Command of 
Lt Colo Olneys Company in the Absence of Lt Jerauldy 

The Revelle to be beat Just before Sunrise & the Retreat 
at Sunset, no troop no taptoo to be beat til further Orders 

The Orderly Serjeants are Directed to call their Rolls at 
Sunrise & Sunset in front of their Hutts and Each one of them to 
make Report to the commanding Officer of his Company whether 
there be any Absenteis or not & what order the Mens Arms and 
Accoutriments are in etc. 

A Fatigue party consisting of i Serjt., i Corpl & 15 Privates 
to be paraded tomorrow Morning 8 oClock for the purpose of 
Building the Col°'s Hutt. 

Head Quarters Jany 12*'^ 1780 

Parole Zantippe C Signs \ ^ . 

B. O. Adj!^ for the Day tomorrow Rogers 

A Brigade Genl Court Martial to sit tomorrow Morning 

9 oClock for the Trial of Ens'? Rusell (now Aid de Camp to 

Genl Stark arrested by Col. Sherburne) and Such other Prisoners 

as Shall be brought before them. 

President — Maj'' Thayer 

Angell I — 4 

Sherburne i — i ,, , 

TUT uu r Members 

Webb I — I 

Jackson i — 2 



The Court to sit at the Presidents Quarters or where he 
shall think most Convenient. 

Lost yesterday a Leathern Pocket Book with two Massa- 
chusetts Bay notes one of an Hundred & fifty & the other Thirty 
Pounds, Value. A Commission & a few other papers of Little 
Value to any Body but y^ Owner — Whoever will Deliver S^ Book 
with the Contents to MajF Prescott of Colo Jacksons Regt. 
Shall Receive fifty Dollars reward. 

B. O. Jan. 13. Adj*. for the Day tomorrow Meigs. Lt. Thos 
Edwards of Colo Jacksons Regt. is Appointed to do the Duty of 
Brigade Majr. & Inspector to the Brigade, in the absence of 
Majr Bradford is to be obeyed & Respected accordingly Lieut 



300 Orderly Book 

David Sayles of Colo Angells Regt. is appointed to do the Duty 
of Brigade Q Master to the Brigade During the Absence of Capt 
Tew. 

The Brigade Court Martial ordered to Sit this Day whereof 
Majr Thayer was appointed President is not to Sitt. 

Divison Orders 

A Division Court Martial will sit next Monday Morning 
10 oClock at the Presidents Quarters by order of the Hon" 
Brigadier Genl Stark for the trial of Ens" Thomas Rusel of 
Colo Sherburnes Regt Aid de Camp to Genl. Stark-Major 
Thayer will preside C Subs 

Genl Clintons 2 — 4. ) ■« *• , 

Genl Starks 2 — 4 f Members 

Lieut. James Fierlee of the 2"!^ N. York is to act as Judge 
Advocate, all Evidences are requested to Attend the Court & 
the above Brigades are to furnish an orderly Serjt to the Court 
by Turns. Genl. Clintons Brigade gives the Serjt on Monday — 

Regimental Orders 

Ens" Joseph Masury is Appointed to do the Duty of Pay 
Master to the Regt. During Capt. Hughes's Absence who is 
going to Rhode Island after Cloathing for the Regiment. 

Head Quarters Jany 15 1780 

The Troops are to hold themselves in Readiness for action 
at a Moments Warning & to be Supplied with two Days Cooked 
Provisions in Advance 

B 0. Adjt for the Day tomorrow Williams 

In Consequence of this Day, Genl Orders the Commanding 
Officer of Regiments will order that their Regiments be Supply'd 
with Provisions accordingly & that the Same be Cook'd Im- 
midiately & also that the Several Q Masters have Ammunition 
Ready to Deliver at a Moments Warning. 

R. O. The Q Master is to Draw two Days Provisions in ad- 
vance, Immidiately, according to Genl Orders & the Com- 
manding Officer of Each Company is to see that his Respective 
Company has their Provision Cook'd as Soon as Possible 

Head Quarters Morristown Jany 18*^ 1780 

Brigade Majr for the Day Tomorrow Van Leer 
A Detachment from the Line to parade Tomorrow Morning 
10 o Clock with two Days Provisions Cook'd. 



Appendix II 301 

Field Officer for the Detachment Lt. Colo North & Maj' 
Thayer. 

The Court Martial whereof Maj Genl How is President is 
to Meet at the Usual place tomorrow Morning ii oClock 

A Pound of hard or Soft Bread & a quarter of a pound of 
Indian Meal; or a Pound of Flour, A pound of Beef or Fourteen 
Ounces of Pork, to be the Daily Ration untill further Orders 

[Jan. 24] 
A Detachment from the Line Compleatly Equip'd with two 

Days Provisions, to parade tomorrow Morning 9 oClock 

Field Officers for the Detachment tomorrow Col° Ogden 

Lt Colo Ford Lt Colo Haight Lt. Colo Mentges Maj"- Dean 

Maj'" Darrow & Maj' Crush. A Surgeon from Genl Maxwells 

Brigade & a Mate from Starks Brigade 

Division Orders 

The Commander of this Division Expressly forbids the Com- 
manding Officers of Brigades or Regiments to Furlough any 
more Officers untill further Orders 

B O Adjt for the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Detail for the Detachment 

C S. S. C. D F P 

A I I I 6 

S I I 2 35 

W 2 I I 32 

J 2 I I I I 25 



23551 I 98 
Surgeons Mate for the Detachment from Colo Angells Regt. ^ 

Regimental Orders. [Jan 25.] 

Ensign Pratt is Appointed to take the Command of Capt. 
Stephen Olney's Company, untill an officer of that Company 
shall Return to Camp. 

As a Number of the Taylors has heretofore Met with the 
Indulgence to be Excus'd from Duty in the Regt. to make & 
repair the Cloathing of the Officers & Soldiers of the same. 
It is Observ'd they Frequently Take practice taking in work 
for the Inhabitants & others Neglecting the work promised to 
their Officers while they suffer for the same. 

'General Orders of this date called for the " whole Army" to be supplied 
with two days provisions, and " to be held in perfect order." Lt. Col. Hunt- 
ington was substituted for Haight, and Major Tory for Darrow, to accompany 
the detachment. See Jany 24th. 



302 Orderly Book 

Should any of them for the future be Detected in the like 
practice without first Obtaining leave from the Commanding 
Officer of the Regt. They may Depend on being punis'd for 
Disobedience of orders 

Serjeant Chaffee will take the Charge & Command of the 
Taylors til, further Orders & be answerable for their Conduct. 

Head Quarters Morristown Jany 26*^^ 1780 

Capt. William Vanlear of the 9^'^ Pennsylvania Regt having 
done the Duty of Brigade MajF & Brigade Inspector of the 2^^ 
Pennsylvania Brigade from the 12^^ Day of December Last is 
appointed Brigade Maj^ & Brigade Inspector. To the same 
he is to be Respected & obey'd accordingly. 

B. O. 

Adjt. for the Day tomorrow Selden the Brigade will be 
Mustered on the 28*'" Ins^ for the Month Nov. & December 1779 
The Muster will begin with Col Angells Regt at 10 oClock in 
the Morning & the other Regt. will be Muster'd in Course 
from Right to Left, the Officers need Only to make Three Rolls 

Head Quarters Morristown Jany 27*'^ 1780 

By a Division Court Martial of the Maryland Line, Major 
Dean President, Lieut. Hugo of the 5*^ Maryland Regt. was 
tried for Beating, Wounding & Abusing, in a Cruel Manner 
Sundry Sodiers Belonging to the 2^'^ Maryland Regt. & Acquitted 
By the same Court Capt. Price of the 2"'^ Maryland Regt. was 
tried for Gaming with [cards] for Money, for Neglect of Duty, 
Gambling, for behaving in a Manner unbecoming the Character 
of an Officer, for Secretly Striking Lt Devol with a Cane 
when he was executing his Duty, for Disorderly & Mutinous 
Conduct in presence of the Soldiers of the Regt. & for Abuse 
after being reported for other Crimes acquitted of the first, 
second, third, & fourth Charges found Guilty of the fifth Charge 
part of the Sixth Charge & the Seventh Charge & Sentenced to 
be Reprimanded in Division Orders 

The Commander in Chief approves the Sentences. 

Head Quarters Morristown Jan. 28*^ 

The Genl is Astonished & Mortified to find that notwith- 
standing the orders Issued on the 29*^ of Last Month & his 
Exhortation to the Officers to prevent it that the Inhabitants in 
the Vicinity of Camp are absolutely a prey to the Plundering & 
Licentious Spirit of the Soldiers 

From the Daily Complaints & the formal Representations 
of the Magistrates on the Subject a Night Scarcely Passes without 



Appendix II 303 

Gangs of Soldiers going out of Camp & Committing every 
Species of Robbery Depredation & the Grossest personal Insults 
this Conduct is Intolerable & a Disgrace to the Army & if any- 
thing can aggrevate it it is that these Violences are Committed 
on the property & persons of those who in a very late & alarming 
Accasion for the want of Provisons Manifested the warmest 
Attachment to the Army by affording it the most Generous & 
plentiful relief, it has also been reported that when Detachments 
are reliev'd & are returning to Camp the Soldiers Straggle 
[Moraud] & plunder in a most shameful & Injurious Manner. 
The Genl Trusts & insists that the Officers will exert themselves 
& take effectual Measures to prevent all such practices in future. 

Proper Camp Guards Agreeable to the Regulations are to be 
Immediately appointed from which patroles are to be sent to the 
environs of the Camp 

If any Soldiers are found Straggling out of the Chain of 
Sentinels after Retreat Beating they are to be brought by the 
Patroles to the Officer of the Guard who is Authorized & re- 
quir'd to give them one hundred Lashes upon the Spot & if any 
one found perpetrating Robberies or other Violences they are 
to receive from one to five hundred Lashes at the Direction of 
the Officer 

B. O. Adjt. of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Head Quarters Morristown Jany 29*^ 

A Warrant N^ 1,910 for 24,958 & ff Dollars, Dated the 
28*^ Instant payable tu Lt Charles Fanning pay Master to the 
4*^ Connecticut Regt. for the pay of the same for Nov. & 
Dec. was Dropt by Accident yesterday with two Abstracts on 
which it was granted between Head Quarters & the D P M Genl 
Office, any Person finding those Papers or any of them, will Lay 
Lt. Fanning under Acknowledgements by Lodging them at the 
pay Office 

The Court Martial whereof Majr Genl How, is President 
is Adjourned til the Proceedings receive the Determination of 
Congress but the Members in the Meantime will Return to 
their Duties in the Line 

A General Court Martial of the Line to Sit tomorrow at 
M*" King's in Morristown for the trial of such persons as Shall 
be brought before them Col. Humpton is appointed President & 
Col. Angell Lt Colo^ Haight, North & Woodford, Majors Tory 
Boils & Anderson & one Capt. from the first Maryland one from 
the 2"'^ Pennsylvania one from Clintons, one from 2"^ Connecti- 
cut, & one from Starks, Brigades are appointed Members 

D Orders. Altho there is a plenty of Fire Wood near the 
Hutts Complaints have been frequently made that some of the 



304 Orderly Book 

Soldiers practice Burning the Inhabitants Fences all Officers in 
the Division are call'd upon to Exert themselves in preventing 
such Unnecessary destruction of property & any Soldier that may 
be found Guilty of burning Rails in future will be severely 
punis'd for Disobedience of Orders 

B. O. Adjt. for the Day tomorrow Meigs Capt. for the 
Court Martial from Colo Angells Regt. 

A Subaltern Guard Consisting of 2 Serjts. 2 Corpls. i Drum 
& 27 Privates to Mount this Day at Retreat beating as a Camp 
Guard, the Officer will send out patroles according to the Genl 
Orders of yesterday The B. Q. M. will see that a Convenient 
place is provided for the Guard till a Guard House can be 
Built. 

Regimental Orders [Jan. 28.] 

Edward Arnold Drummer in Capt. S. Olney's Company, is 
Appointed to do the duty of Drum Major & to have the Command 
of the Musick til the Return of the Drum or Fife Major he is to 
be Obey'd accordingly. 

For the Future the Taptoo will beat at 9 oClock after which 
no Soldier must be Absent from his Regt. or quarters without 
Leave from his Officer in Writing On pain of being Severely 
punish'd for Disobedience of Orders. 

At a Regimental Court Martial held in Quarters this day, 
by order of Capt. Comd* C Olney (whereof Capt. Humphrey 
was President) was tried William Powell of Lt. Col. Olney's 
Company, Charg'd with Absenting himself from Quarters, 
twenty four hours without Leave, Found Guilty of the Charge 
& Sentenced to receive Forty Stripes on his naked Back The 
Capt. Comd* approves the Sentences & orders it put in Execu- 
tion tomorrow Morning at Troop Beating. 

Head Quarters Morristown Jan 31^* 1780 
Parole Denmark C Signs j -p. 

Brigadier for the Day tomorrow Maxwell Field Officer, 
Col. Cortland. 

The Genl Observes with great Concern that to many Officers 
are Daily absent from Camp by which the Discipline of their 
Respective Cores must necessarily be much neglected & many 
Disorders Ensue. To this in a great Measure is to be Attributed 
the Shocking Spirit of Licentiousness now prevailing among the 
Soldiery. 

The Late Capture of some Officers on the Lines who were not 
there on Duty Ought to be a Caution against the like practice 
in future Gentlemen taken in this manner may assure themselves 
that they will not be Exchang'^ in turn, but will be postponed as 



Appendix II 305 

long as possible & the Commissary of Prisoners will be Instructed 
accordingly — -The Genl. calls upon the Officers Commanding 
Divisions, Brigades, & Regiments to take Effectual Measures 
to prevent a Continuance of these Irregularities & in General to 
Effect a more Strict Observance of the Regulations Established 
by Congress, than has hitherto Obtain'd. 

Though he is far from wishing to Impose unnecessary Re- 
straint upon Officers or to refuse them any Reasonable Indul- 
gence, yet he cannot think of tolerating Excesses Subversive of 
the Service & productive of every Evil Consequence 

A Brigadier & a Field Officer of the Day to be appointed — 
these as Usual will Superintend the Police of the Camp & the 
Service of the Guards & will see the Regulations for both Care- 
fully Executed 

The Genl. Expects a pointed Attention 

In the present Scarcity of Genl. Offices with the Army the 
Colo^. Commanding Brigades will Roll in the Duties of the 
Day, Instead of Brigadiers. The Old & new Officers of the 
Day will attend Head Quarters Every Day at one oClock the 
former to make report of the transactions of the preceeding day 
& the latter to receive any new orders the Commander in Chief 
may have to give 

B. O. Adjt of the Day tomorrow Williams 

Head Quarters Feb^ i«*, 1780 

Brigadier for the Day tomorrow Guest. Field Officer, Col. 
Spencer. 

The Connecticut Division is to be held in perfect readiness 
to March at a very Short Notice. 

Regimental Orders 
Jonathan Briggs a Soldier in Capt. Hughes's Company, is 
promoted to a Corporal in the same & is to be Respected accord- 
ingly. 

Head Quarters Feby 2'"^ 1780 

Parol France C Signs j piQ^f^^^^ 

Brigadier for the Day tomorrow Ervine 

Field Officer Col. Jackson 
The General Court Martial will sit tomorrow L* Col. Shierman is 
to go on Command with the Connecticut Division & L* Col. North 
being sick: Majors Piatt & Trescott are appointed members. 

B. O. Adjt. of the Day tomorrow Meigs 

The Situation of the Regiments being such that there are 
not Officers Sufficient to appoint one as Officer of Police the 



3o6 Orderly Book 

Commanding Officers of Regts. are Requested to appoint two 
Serjeants Daily to Inspect the police of the Camp. 



Head Quarters Morristown Febv 3*^ 1780 
Officers of the Day for tomorrow | Mt'o^^Ha^rdman 

By a Division Court Martial of the Maryland Division 
Maj'' Hardman President, Ensign Ford of the 2^ Maryland Regt 
was Tried, first for Disobedience of orders Issued the 29*^ of 
Nov. Last in Marching the second Regt. from the parade at 
Pumpton when Directed to the Contrary — 2^^^ lor Conduct un- 
becoming the Character of an Officer & Gentleman in Relating 
to Col. Woolford Orders Different to those he Receiv'd by which 
he Obtain'd his permission to March Thirdly for Contempt of 
orders & Subversion of Subordination in Executing the Orders 
of Col. Woolford in Direct Opposition to those sent by the 
Brigade MajF & Acquitted with Honour. 

B. O. Adjt. of the Day tomorrow Selden 

Mr Jacob Weed the Brigade Commissary being absent on 
Furlough Mr Israel Weed is appointed to do the Duty of Brigade 
Commissary in his Absence 

Head Quarters Morristown Feby 4 1780 
Parole Holland C Signs | jj^gue" 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | Lt^'cd^Halght 

Generals Hand & Maxwells Brigades will furnish the Fatigues 
for the new Orderly Room for tomorrow & next Day. 

Two hundred Men from Gen'? Clintons & Sparks Brigades 
Properly Officered with two Days Provisions To march to Morris- 
town this afternoon. The Commanding Officer will Receive 
orders in writing at the Adjr Genl=^ Office. Bv a Gen^ Court 
Martial Held in Garrison at Philadelphia by order of Brigadier 
Gen' Woodford. On the 5*^ of Jan^ 1780 Col. Nevil President, 
Tho^ Warren of the Invalid Core was tried for Leaving his Post 
when Centinel & for Theft Found Guilty of a breach of Section 
I3*h Article the 6*^ of the Articles of War of the United States of 
America & Sentenced to Suffer Death. 

The Commander in Chief approves the Sentence & orders it 
to be Executed The Prisoner is to suffer according to the Sen- 
tence awarded against him bv being Shot to Death on the 10*^ 
of Feby Ins^ 



Appendix II 307 

Head Quarters Morristown Feb^ 6^^ 1780 

Parole Karmineck C Signs ] -it- i- i^ 

Officers of the Dav for tomorrow 

B. Gen' Clinton 

Col. Spencer 

B, Maj. Davidson 

A Detachment from the Line with three Days Provision to 
parade tomorrow morning, under the Command of Majr Winder. 
Attended by a Surgeon from the first Pennsylvania Brigade 
A Detachment from the Maryland Devision with two Days 
Provision to March to Morristown this afternoon 

Brigade Orders 
Adj* for the Day tomorrow Meigs 

Regimental Orders 
Mr John Fisher of Major Thayers Comp^ (Agreeable to a 
Recommendation by L* Jenkes) is promoted to a Serjeant & to 
Draw pay as such from the first of Feb^ Ins* Serjeant E. Dexter 
of the above s'^ Comp^ is appointed Serj* Major till further 
Orders. They are to be Respected & Obeyed Accordingly 

Head Quarters Feb^ 7*^ 1780 

Parole Loretto C Signs i y „ • 

rB. Gen^ Guest' 
Officers of the Day for tomorrow -< Lt. Col. Willet 

(B. Maj"- Carlisle 

Hands & Maxwells Brigades will Relieve the Morristown 
Picquet tomorrow at i o Clock. 

Head Quarters Morristown Feb^ 8*^ 1780 

( Col. Hazen 
Officers of the Day for tomorrow \ L* Col. Ford 

( B Majr Ross 

The Officer of the Day having reported that the End of 
Appointing Reserve Piquets is not answered for want of spare 
Hutts & that the practice is attended with much Fatigue to 
the Officers & Men. The Gen^ Discontinues them for the present 
& in Lieu of them Directs that instead of the usual Camp Guards 
Each Brigade shall til further Orders furnish i Sub 2 Serjts 2 
Corp'^ I Drum & 36 Privates Those of Each Division to be 
Commanded by a Captain from the Division. 



3o8 Orderly Book 

To keep up the duties of the Grand Parade these Guards are 
to Assemble there at the appointed hour & to pass through the 
Customary Forms under the Inspection of the Officers of the 
Day after which they are to March Back to their Respective 
Brigades for the immediate purposes of Camp Duty. The 
Captains will have their Duties assigned them by the Officers of 
the Day & when Relieved are to Repair to the New Orderly 
Room with Written Reports to be Delivered to the Officers of 
the Day that these may comprise whatever requires notice, into 
a Gen^ Report for the Commander in Chief. They will make 
Duplicate Reports to the Officers Commanding the Divisions to 
which thev belong & each Subaltern will do the same to the 
Commandant of his Brigade 

The Gen^ Expects much Exact[ness] in the Parade Duties & 
other Duties of the Day. 

Every Brigade is to Exert itself to get Guard Hutts Erected 
at proper places & though the State of the Grounds prevents 
the Digging of Vaults yet some sort of conveniences may Easily 
be Built which common decency & a regard to the Health of 
the Men render Indispensible 



Headquarters Morristown Feb^ 9*^ 1780 

( Col. Cortland 
Officers of the Day tomorrow •] Lt. Col. Mentges 

( B, Maj"" from the 
first Pennsylvania 
Brigade 

By a Gen' Court Martial held at the Park of Artillery Jan'' 
22 1780 Lt. Col. Stevens president, Dan^ Thorn, Joseoh Far- 
borough, & David Slater were tried for striking abusing & 
threatening the Lives of L* Wisinfells of the second N. York 
Reg* & Ens. Denniston & Acquitted. The Gen^ Disapproves 
the acquittal The Evidence against the Prisoner in his Opinion 
Over balances that for them; from a Consideration of the Char- 
acter of the respective Witnesses & in a case of such a Nature 
the presumption Ought to have been in favour of the Officers 
who were Injured — the Prisoners are to be released from Con- 
finement. 

Head Quarters Feb^ 10**' 1780 

f^a- c i-u T-« .1. \ Col Sherburn 

Officers of the Day tomorrow j j^t Col. Huntington 

Brigade Maj"" from the 2^ Pensylvania Brigade. 

Cap* Hollingshead of the Jersey Brigade is to attend the 



Appendix II 309 

Gen' Court Martial tomorrow at lo o'Clock, as a member, in 
place of Major Piatt, sick. 

The Commander in Chief at the Intercession of the Officers 
of the 3^ Pensylvania Regiment & for other Wei.u:hty Considera- 
tions, thinks fit to remit the sentence against W"^ Barrot of said 
Regt. He also thinks fit at the Intercession of Col. Jackson & 
for similar Reasons to remit the Sentences against Joseph Water- 
house, Amos Rounds, William Straw, John Matthews, James 
Whitney, W"' Harmon, Pelitiah Harmon, Nathan Milikin, 
Joseph Milikin, Christian Mires, & Philip Wild of his Reg^ & 
these Soldiers are to be Severally released from Confinement. 

Joseph Pearce & Nathan Barney of the Same Reg^ are to 
receive Corporal punishment, agreeable to the Sentences Decreed 
against them & are to be Released from Confinement 

Brigade Orders 

Adj* for the Day tomorrow Meigs 

Mr. Eben. Branham is appointed Conductor of Military 
Stores, to Gen. Starks Brigade & is to be considered as Such — 
the late Conductor is Discharged. 

The Sentences against Jesse Pearce & Nathan Barney of 
Col. Jacksons Reg* are to be put in Execution, this Day at 
Evening Roll call — For this purpose the Brigade will parade at 
s<^ Roll call without A(rms) The Camp Guard will parade on 
the P[arade]. Brigade, at the sa[me] 

[Feb.] Charles McLean of the 3^^ Pensylvania Regiment. 
Thomas Herendeen & W^" Potter of Col. Angells Reg*, John 
Lewis of Col. Jacksons Reg* & John M'^ Lean & W'" Harper of 
the 4*^ New York Reg* are to suffer agreeable to the sentences 
decreed against them.^ 

Loose leaf — now at end — ruled for Guards, Fatigue Commands 
and Court Martial, and headed 

"Roaster of Duties" 

The names appear of the following Captains: Tew., C. Olney, 
J. Olney, Allen, Hughes, — Humphry, Capt. Lt. Littlefield, & 
the following lieutenants : Jerould, Waterman, Sayles, Macomber, 
Jenckes, Waterman, jr., Peckham; and Ensigns, Wheaton, Grene, 
Masury, Greenman, Pratt Rogers. 

'This page ends the Orderly Books covering the period July, 1779 to 
February 1780. The next existing book commences with May, 1780. 



310 Orderly Book 

Head Quarter, May 2^^ 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow Col. Spencer Maj. Torey. 

Brig*^ Maj 2^ Pensylvanea Brigade 

The Pensylvanea Line Gives the Main g^ and Piquet to- 
morrow. 

the non Commisioned officers and Privats of Col. Sherborns 
Regiment Who Belong to the State of Massachusetts are for the 
Present to Join Col. Jackson those Belonging to the State of 
Rhode Island Col Angell and those Belonging to the State of 
Conneticut Col. Webbs and they are to be Included in the Muster 
Rolls and the Pay Rolls of the above Regiments from the first 
Instant. 

Brigade Orders 

Adj. of the Day tomorrow from Col Webbs Regiment 
The Mustering and Inspecting of the Brigade is Postponed till 
thursday next 

Regimental orders 

for Camp Guard to morrowXt. Macomber 
for Police Lt. Wheaton 

After Brigade orders 

The Non Commisoned officers and Privats of Col. Sherborns 
Regiment Will Turn In their Camp Equepage to Q. Master Lion 
of Said Regiment at Troop Beating tomorrow morning and at 
Nine oClock to join their Respective Regits. agreebale to this 
Days order — it is Expected that their Barracks Will be Intireley 
Clean 

Head Quarters May 3: 1780 

Officers of the Day to morrow | ^\ ^^^^^ 

Brig Maj. firsh 

The Main & Pequet guards are to be Relieved from Lord 
Sterlings & the Pensylvanea Divisions 

Division Orders 

at A Division Court Martial held April 28*^ Whereof Lt. Col 
Comdt Wisefield President Ens Joseph Minen^ of the Second 

■ This section contains the extracts from a book, from which leaves are lost, 
in which the earHest date is 2nd May, 1780, and the latest 6th June, 1780. 
' Minnel below: possibly McNeil? 



Appendix II 311 

New York Regiment was tryed for neglect of Duty When Com- 
manding officer of Camp gd of the New York Brig^i on the first 
of April and Wilfull Desobedance of, orders In not keeping in 
confiment Isaac Macentire When Col. Corterlin had ordered 
under guard 3^ for not Confining Seravl Soldiers of his guard 
Whome he had Lett Stragle from his guard When had Particular 
ordered their by Col. Cortelin. 

the Court having Considered the Charge Produced aganst 
Ens. Minnil the Evidence and his Defense are of oppinion that 
the Second & third Charges are not Supported But find him gulty 
of the first Charge Being a Breech of Articel the fifth Sexion 
i8^h of the Articels of war & Sentance him to be Repremanded 
In the Division orders: 

The Gen' confarms the Sentance of the court though he would 
Been much happayer had not Ens. Minnel given gest Room. 
Censureing the Importance of g'^ is so Conspicuously Evident 
to the Safety of the Camp at the Lest neglect In the officer Which 
on that Duty as it may be attended with fateal Consequencies 
Will suerly Admit of No Excuse: it is hoped that this will 
Prove necesary to Ens. Minel In futer — he is RelecC^ from his 
Arrest 

at the Same Court was Tryed Charles William, a Soldier in 
the forth New York Regt. first for Dersertion 2^ for forgin A 
Pass to affect the Same. 

The Court find him guilty of Boath Charges & Sentance him 
to Pass the gantlope through the Brig"^ twice with a file of Men 
with Bayonets at his Breast to Regulate his Steps 

Also Oliver Russell Soldier in the 3'^ New York Regt. was 
Tryed for Dersertion found gulty & Sentance to Receive one 
hundred Lashes on his naked Back. 

Soldier Joseph Cotis In the fourth New York Regt Was 
Tryed at the Same Court for Desertion & conseling himself In the 
Countrey till the time of his Inlistment was expired found guilty 
& Sentance to Receive one hundred Lashes on his Bair Back and 
that he Serve as Long in the Regiment as he was Absent from it 
from the Expirration of his Foulough Till the Day he was Brought 
to the Regiment. 

the Genl. Approves the Sentance and orders them to be Put 
In exceution this Eveng at Retreat Beating. 

Brig*^ orders. 

Adj. of the Day tomorrow Hunt 
Captain from Col Jacksons Regt 
R. Orders 

for Camp g'^ tomorrow Lt Jenks 
for Police Ensign Pratt 



312 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters May 4*^ 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow I 9?^Pl^^^ 

^ i Majr Moore 

B Maj Starks Brig^ 

Lords Sterlings & the Pensylvania Division Gives the Main <g^ 
& Pequet tomorrow A Sergt Corpl & twelve Privates from Clin- 
tons Division for Fatigue to be Sent to the Adj Genl Quarters 
tomorrow morning. As Part of the Army was Absent When the 
Genl order Relating to the Pay of officers Sent on Command Was 
Published the Genl Repeats it 

the Little attention paid to the Resolves of Congress 4^^ of 
September 1778 Published in the Genl orders of the 25^^ of the 
Same month and the Nimiber of accounts Exhibited on Certifi- 
cate Repugnant to that Resolve and the order Accompanying 
it Do Oblige the Commander in Chief to Declair Hensforth no 
Warrant Shall be given for Payments of any accompts Perduced 
in Consequence of that Resolve unless the officer Applying have 
been Detacht by a Spaciel order By himself or Commanding 
officer of a Department the Mode of obtaining Such orders Will 
be by certificate from the Majr Genl or Brig'^'' from Whos Brig<^ 
or Division the officer is to be Sent Spacifying the Nature and 
Necessity of the Service to be Perfromd 

Brigade orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Regimental orders 

for Police tomorrow Ens Greenman 
Head Quarters After orders 
Details for Detachments 

Starks Brigd CSS C D F P 
I 2 4 4 I 2 62 

the above Detachment to be Paraded Immeadeatly on the grand 
Parade With two Days Provisions if possible their Arms & Packs 
Col Crage & Majr Thayer for this Detachment 

Regimental orders After orders 

for Command Lt Hubbart & Wheaton 

Head Quarters May 5*^ 1780 
Officers of the Day tomorrow | ^t^^o^ Comdt Butler 

Brigd Majr Hands Brigade 

A Serjeant Corpl & twelve Privates from the pensylvanea Divi- 
sion for Fatigue tomorrow at Commissary Keeris 



Appendix II 313 

Division Orders 

at the Division Court Martial held by Adjourment from the 
28th of April Was Tryed Issac Utter A Soldier of the fifth & Joel 
Turtel Soldier In the Second New York Regiment found gulty 
of Desertion and Sentance to Recive one hundred Lashes Each 
John Green a Soldier in Col Angells Regt Was Tryed and found 
Gulty of Deserting from the Clothiers Guard and Selling his uni- 
form Coat the Property of the pulick, and Sentance to Receve one 
Hundred Lashes — Saml Cuttler Phillip Targee Abraham Shippea 
and Russell handey A Soldier in Col Jacksons Regiment Were 
Tryed at the Same Court and found gulty of Desertion the Court 
Sentance Cuttler & Targee to Recive one hundred Lashes Each 
Shippea on(e) hundred Lashes and to be Picketed ten Minnets 
and Serve their time in their Regiment from Which they Deserted 
the Court Also Sentance Russell handey to Recive one hund- 
red Lashes But Recommend him for Pardon 

Thomas pendergrass A Soldier in Col Jacksons Regiment was 
Also Tryed for Desertion and acquited 

the Genl Confirms the Sentances of the Court and orders them 
Put in Execution this Eveng at Retreat Beating the Corpl 
Punishment of Russell handey at the Request of the Court 
is Dispensed with an(d) Thomas Pendergrass is Relived from 
his Confinment 

Brigade Orders 
Adjt of the Day tomorrow Hunt 
Captain of the Day from Col Jacksons Regt 

Regimental orders 

for Camp Guard tomorrow Lt Wheaton 

for Police Ens Masury 

the Regt to Parade this Eving Perscisley at Six oClock When 
Every man of Duty is to be on the Parade and those that have 
Drawd over alls if they Do Not Where them to Bring them on 
the Parade 

Head Quarters May the 6 : 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow { Lt Col Comdt Hubley 

Brigd Majr from Maxwells Brigd. 

the Morristown guard and (Small?) Detach* and Fatigue 
Parties till Further orders to be Furnished Weekly In Roteation 
Whilst the third Do hold themselves in Readiness to march 
on the Shortest Notice With two Day Provisions — 
Lord Sterlings and Clintons Division furnishes the guard the 
Ensuing week 

the officer Casultes to be inserted In the Returns in the follow- 



314 Orderly Book 

ing order firstly Sick Present 2'^'^ Sick Absent thirdly on 
Command fourthly on Extra Service fifth on Furlough Sixthly Re- 
cruiting Seventhly on the Staff Eightly Prisoner of War ninthly 
Fourloghs Expired Tenthly In Arrest Eleventhly Vacant the 
Collam of Rank & file on Extra Service to be inserted Between 
Column on Comd and Fourlogh — 

as the Warm Season is approaching the Commanding (officers) 
of Regts See that the Sick of their Respective Regiments are Put 
into huts by themselves and that Proper Windows or openings 
are made on all their Soldiers huts to Admit Surcilation of 
fresh air 

the Regimental Surgeons to Deliver on the usual Returns of 
the Sick on Monday Next to the Director Genl of the flying 
Hospital and Punctually on Every Monday in futur 

Regtl orders 
for Main gd tomorrow Capt C Olney & Ens Green 
for Camp Guard Ens Masury 
for Police Lt Jenks 

Head Quarters May 7*** 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | ?.9.^^,^i^!l^ 

( Lt Col Willet 

Brigd Majr from 2nd Pensylvanea Brigade 
B : O : for Main guard tomorrow Ens Greenman for Police Lt 
Macomber 

Head Quarters May S*"^ 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow | fS^^"^} Irvine 

( Lt Col Deheart 
Brigd Majr 2"^ Pensylvanea Brde 

Regimental Orders 

for Camp Guard tomorrow Ens Pratt for Police Ens Masury 

After Brigd orders 

The Sentence of Abraham Shippey of Col Jacksons Regiment 
Being to be Pecketted an(d) Mentiond in the Division Orders 
of the 15*^ Instant is Remitted 

Head Quarters 9*^ May 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow i ff^^^^^'^Sston 

I Lt Col Smith 
Brigd Majr (fish ?) 

the Jarsey Brigd to be held in Readiness to march with 
their Baggage on the Shortest Notice 

Robert Powers & Samuel Pell Soldiers of the tenth also 



Appendix II 315 

Job Jestice and Thos Brown of the Seventh Pensylvanea Regi- 
ment now under the Sentence of Death for Plundering the 
house of Mr. Bogart Near Paramus on Representation from their 
officers that they had Previous to the Commission of the Crime 
Behaved Like good Soldiers and on the Earnerst Entersition of 
Mr Bogart in their Behalf His Excellency Commander in Chief 
is Pleas (ed) to Pardon them. 

At a Division genl Court Martial Whereof Lt Col Murray 
Was President Joseph [Engtell ?] ' & John Ereheart Soldiers in 
the II Pensylvanea Regt was Tryed for attempting to Desert 
to the Enemy. Plead gulty of Desertion But Denied their 
Entention of going to the Enemy 

the Court are Clearly of Oppinion that they are gulty of 
the Charge Exhibeted against them . . . and Do Sentance them 
(uppards of two thirds of the Court agreeing their to) to suffer 
Death the Commander in Chief Confirms the Sentence 

Brigd orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovall 
Captain from Col Angells Regiment 

Regimental orders 
Captain of the Day tomorrow Allen 
for Main guard Lt Jenks & Macomber 
for Police Ens Greene 

Head Quarters May lo'^'^ 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow \ 9?^°^^^°^ 

( Lt Col Robmson 

Brigs Maj Starks Brigade 

Serjt Corpl & twelve Privates for fatigue 

they are to be sent Very early tomorrow morning to Q 
Masters Inses at Morristown With their arms 8c three Days 
Provisions 

the Jersey Brigade to move tomorrow morning — Genl Max- 
well Will Call at head Quarters for orders 

the State of the Roads at Present admitting the march of 
the men at Ease the order of 8*^ of February Last Revivd 
But Instead of Assembling at Nine oClock the guards are to 
be on the grand Parade at Eight the Troop to Beat at Seven 

at the genl Court Martial Where of Col Screve was president 
on the 22"<^ inst Maj Church of the fourth Pensylvania Regiment 
Was Tryed on the Following Charges first for Purchsing mens 
Pay at an under Value 2'^^ for Discharging A man fit for Duty 
and Returning him unfit for Service 3'"'^ for Defrading the united 

' Engtest? 



3i6 Orderly Book 

States & the Regts in Several Instances Viz i^* Keeping Laborn 
Bogart a Soldier in Said Regiment Working on his farm A Con- 
siderable time and Mustering him on Command 2"^ for Keeping 
James McGee a Soldier in the Same Regt Driving his or his 
Brothers team and Discharging him from the Regt 3'"'^ Drawing 
Soldiers Pay by Virtue of orders Which orders the men De- 
clared to Be forged 4*^ Sending a horse Known to be the Public 
Property to his farm Which horse Sence has be (en) offered for 
Sale 5*^ forceble taking one hundred & ten Dollars from James 
Danack a Soldier 6'^ taking Clothes Sent for the use of the Sol- 
diers out of the Pay Masters Store without his Knowage and 
appropriting them to his own use 

the Court After Ma(t)ure Deliberation are of oppinion that 
(all) and Each of these are intire un Suported: and that the 
Procution of Maj Church was Melicious and groundless and 
thierfore Do Acquit him with honour. 

the Commander in Chief Confirms the oppinion of the Court 
Maj Church is Releas(ed) from his arrest 

Brig<i Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Mr Christopher Stoaks is appointed to Do the Duty of 
Commissary for Genl Starks Brigd till further orders 

Regimental orders 
for Camp guard tomorrow Lt Wheaton 
for Police Ens Pratt 

Head Quarters May 11*^ 1780 
officers of the Day tomorrow | l° c^fna ^ 

Brigd Maj from hands Brigade 

the Genl Court Martial Whereof Col Shirve was President 
is Desolved 

Brigd Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Lovall 

Regimental Orders 
for Camp tomorrow Ens Greene 
for Police Ens Greenman 

Head Quarters May I2**> 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow j Col Jacksn 
Brigd Maj Alexander ( Lt Col Montegest 

on Monday next the Troops will Begin to Exercise and Con- 
tinue Every Day fryday and Sundays Accepted in the following 



Appendix II 3^7 

manner at Six oClock A M Each Regiment will Parade and 
their Rolls will be Cald the Commanding officers taking Par- 
ticular Care that none of their officers or men are Absent Accept 
those on guard or other Meteral Duty and ammedeadeatly 
After the Rolls are Cald Each Regt will begin to Exercise By 
Companies in the manner Perscribed in the Sixth Chapter of 
Regulations 

Each Company to be Exercise by the Capt or the officer 
Commanding it and the field officer to Superintend the Whole 
and See it is Carrid on agreeable to the Regulations 

the Paymaster & Q Master having a Right to Command in 
their Companies in the time of attention must attend the Exer- 
cise as often as their Staff Duty will admit. 

at five oClock P : M the Regiments will Exercise by Companies 
in the same manner But without arms 

the Commanding Officers of Regiments are to be Answerable 
that no Waiter or other Persons Shall Absent themselves from 
the Exercise on any Pertence and the Genl and Inspectors of 
Brigds Will Visit the Regiments and See that this order is 
Strictly Obeyd 

Every monday Wednesday & Saturday beginin on monday 
Next the Inspector Genl or in his Absense one of the Inspectors 
Will Exercise on the Green near morristown two Batalions 
Detacht from the Lines to Consist of one Colo or Lt Colo one 
Major Six Captains Seven Lieuts, Eight Ensigns one of which 
is for the Colours twenty Six Serjeants and Corporals Eight 
Drums Eight fifes two hundred & fifty six Rank & file 

the Troops are to be at the Place of Exercise at Nine Clock 
A. M 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Rogers 
Nine Commissioned officers Nine Serjeants Eight Drums & 
fifes and one hundred Sixty Rank & file to Parade at four this 
Afternoon to Practice the Exercise and manouvers 

Regimental orders 
for Camp guard tomorrow Ens Masury 
for Police Lt Wheaton 

Head Quarters May 13**^ 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow \ ^?^.^p^^ 
■' } Ma] Thayer 

B Maj Second Pensylvanea Brigade 

A man acquainted with a management of hides from the Second 
Pensylvanea Brigd Also one from Starks Brigd to be Sent to 
the D: Commissary of hides at morristown tomorrow they are 



3i8 Orderly Book 

to Remain with him till the Brigd Which they Belong move 
from this Place 

Brgd Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Lovall Captain from Col Jacksons 
Regt 

A man to be Sent from Col Jacksons Regt to the Deputy 
Commissary of hides at morristown tomorrow morning agreeable 
to this Day genl orders 

Regimental orders 
for main guard tomorrow Ens greenman for Camp guard Ens 
Pratt for Police Lieut Jenks 

Head Quarters May 14, 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | ^°^: ^^or?^ 

Brigade Maj fish 

to Command the manovering Batalion tomorrow Col Livingston 

and Johnston Majs Read and T More 

A Detachment for a fortnight to Parade tomorrow morning 
at guard mount with their arms Packs and three Day Provisions 
and forty Rounds Pr man 
Maj Thos Moore Will Take Command of them 

The Pensylvanea and Clintons Division to furnish the morris- 
town guard and Detached guards and Fatigue Parties the 
Ensuing week 

Lt W™ Fatman of the tenth Pensylvanea Regiment is ap- 
pointed P: Master of the Same Vice Ens Bensted Resignd 

The Genl Court Martial Whereof B genl hand is President 
to Assemble tomorrow morning Nine oClock at morristown 

A Capt from the first Pensylvanea Brigd to attend the Court 
Vice a Capt from the Maryland Line 

Division Orders 
the Members of the Division Court Martial Whereof Lt 
Col Comdt Wiseinfields is President untill further orders are to 
Return to their Duty in the Line 

Brigde Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Regimental Orders 
for Police tomorrow Lt Jerauld for manovuering Detachment 
Captain Hiunphrey Lts Hubbart & Wheaton ' 

Division orders of the 13 Instant By a Division Genl Court 
Martial Whereof Lt Col Comdt Wisenfill is President Benj Quac- 
kinbush Soldier in the 3*^ New York Regiment was Tryed for 



Appendix II 319 

Attempting to Desert to the Enemy with his arms and accoutre- 
ments found gulty of Attempting to Desert without his arms and 
accoutrements Being a breach of Articel the first Section Sixth of 
the Articels of war and Sentance to Run the gantlope through the 
Brigd twice With fixt Baynets at his Breast to Regulate his Pace 
the Commanding officer Approves the Sentance and orders it 
to be (Executed) the 14 Instant at Eving Roll Call at the Same 
Court Fradrick Speegler Soldier in the Same Regt Was Tryed 
on the Same Charge and found not gulty 

the Commanding officer Approves the Sentance of the Court 



Head Quarters May 15 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow ( Col Craige 

1 Maj Talbut 
Brigd Majr Starks Brigade 

the Genl Court Martial Where of Brigadier Genl hand is 
Presidt to Assemble at the hut Leatley (Lately) Ocpied by Majr 
Winder In the Maryland Line Majr Eustice is appointed a 
member Vice Major Geer Indisposed 

Lt James Fairlie of the Second New York Regiment is 
appointed Aide D' Camp to Maj Genl Barron Stuben and is to 
be Obayd and Respected accordingly 

the Cols and Commanding officers of Regiments in Camp 
are to attend Wednesday morning next at nine oClock at the 
Place of Exercise near Morristown 

Brigade orders 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovall 

Mr Jacob Weed having Returned to Camp Will Resume 
the Duty of his office as Commissary to the Brigd — 

the Drums & fifes of the Brigade In futer Will Practise from 
Six till Seven oClock in the morning and from five till Six in the 
Afternoon 

Regimental orders 

for Main guard tomorrow Lt Jerauld 

for Camp guard Lt Jenks 

for Police Ens Pratt 

Head Quarters Morristown 16 May 80 
Officers the day tom 

After Brigd orders 
A Return to be made tomorrow morning of coulors Espontoons 
Non Commis^ Officers Swords Drums and Fifes Wanting in the 
Several Regiments In the Brigade 



u 



320 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters May i6*^ 1780 
Officer of the Day tomorrow 

Brigdr Genl Ervine 
Lt Col Comdt Wisenfels 
Brigd Maj Church 

to Command the manouvering Batalion tomorrow Cols 
Cortland & Jackson Lt Cols Robinson & Hay 

all officers Absent from the Army Accept on Fourloghs not 
Expiered Recruiting or on Command are forthwith to Join 
their Corps the officer Commanding Division Will Pay Particu- 
lar attention to have this order Excuted 

The Manouvering Batalion to be formed in the field oppisit 
Starks Brigade Persisley at nine oClock tomorrow 

two Adjts from the Pensylvanea Division to be Added to 
these Batalions they are to be furnished With A Standard from 
the Pensylvanea Division and one from Clintons Brigade 

Brgd Major from the first Pensylvanea Brigd to attend their 
formation 

Regimental orders 

for Main tomorrow Capt Allen and Lt Hubbart 

for Police Ens Greenman 

for Manouvering Detachment Captain C Olney Ensigns 
Greene Masury & Pratt 

Head Quarters May 17*^ 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow I Ff^^H'^V^^^^?,''?, ,, 

I Lt Col Com^^^ Butler 

Brigd Major Second Pensylvanea Brigade 

Colo Proctor is Appointed Member of the Genl Court martial 
Vice Col Ogdon Excused on account of his Regiment Being in 
the Lines 

Captain John McGowen is Appointed Paymaster Lt. E 
Bettey Adj and Lt John Pratt Q Master to the fourth Pennsyl- 
vanea Regt 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovall 
Captain of the Day from Colo Webbs Regt 

Regimental Orders 
for Mian Guard tomorrow Lt Wheaton 
for Police Ens Masury 

Head Quarters May i8*^>- 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow I p?y°^?,^^°^, „ u^ 

•' I Lt Col Cornet Hubley 

B : Major Second Pensylvanea Brigade 



Appendix II 321 

at A Division Genl Court Martial May lo*^- 1780 

Lt Col Comdt Weseinfalls President Mathew Bell Soldier In 
the Second & James handley Soldier in the fourth New York 
Regt Were Tryed for Attempting to Desert to the Enemy With 
their Arms and accoterments Also Lancaster Lighthall Soldier 
in the third New York Regiment Was Tryed at the Same Court 
for Attempting to Desert to the Enemy With the Arms and 
accoterments of Another Soldier the Court are of oppinion that 
the Charge Against Bell and handley are fully Supported and 
that they are gulty of Articel first Sextion Sixth of the Articels 
of war 

they are further Oppinion that the Charge Against Lighthall 
is Suported Except his taking the Arms and Accoterments of 
another Soldier 

and that he gulty of a Breech of the Articels and Section 
aforesaid and Do Sentance them all three to Be Shott (upwards 
of two thirds of the Court Agreeing theirto) 

His Excellency the Commander in Chief Approves the 
Sentance 

Briga*^ orders 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Nine Commissoned officers Nine Serjeants Eight Drums & 
fifes one hundred and Sixty R & file to Parade at four oClock 
this Afternoon to Practice the Exercise and Manouvers 

A Corporal and three men for Fatigue to Parade tomorrow 
Morning at guard mounting for the Perpose of Repairing the 
guard house — the officers of the guard is Disered to overse the 
Party 

Regimental orders — for Manouvering Detachment at four 
oClock this Afternoon Captain Allen Lieuts Parish & Jenks 
and Hubbort and En^ Greenman 

for Camp Guard tomorrow En^ Green 

for Police Lt Hubbort 

Head Quarters May 19th: 1780 

John Smith of Capt Hughes Company is promoted to a 
Corporal to Be Respected Accordingly he will Join Lt Col 
Olneys Company and a man transferrd from his to Capt hughes 
Company in Lew of Smith 

A No of Recrutes having Lataly Joined the Regiment makes 
it Necessery their shall be A Drill Eastablished all New Recrutes 
as acquanted with the Exercise and Such as may be on guard 
In Each Company to be formed In a Squad by themselvs and 
to be Exercised the hours Appointed in Gen^ orders by Corp* 
John Smith under the Inspection of the officers of the Police 

After Regimental Orders for Manouvering Detachment 



t 



f 



322 Orderly Book 

Captain Humphrey Vice Capt Allen enable to Attend and 
En^ Green Vice Lt hubbort Absent 

Head Quarters May 19th: 80 

Officer of the Day tomorrow | 9?^;.S^^?il^?^ 

( Lt Col Willet 

B. Maj Church 

Colo^ Angell and Stuard Lt Col Huntington and Maj Torry 
to Command the Maneuvering Batalions they are to be formed 
to morrow Morning at Six oClock Percisly 

Briga<^ Maj from the Second Pensylvania Brigade to Attend 
the formation &c 

Clintons and Hands Briga'^ Each gives A Adj and Colours 
as before 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovall 
Provision Not having timely arrived Which hindred the Troops 
from Being Regularly Supplied The Gen! orders A Jill of Rum 
Deliverd to Each Non Commissioned officer and Soldier 

Maneuvering Detachment 1 

CSSCDFP I 

A I 3 3 I I I 36 I 

W I 3 I I I 36 Morristown 

J II 4 I I I 38 

2 5 103 3 3 88 f, 

Regimental Orders ? 

for Camp Guard tomorrow Ens Masury 
for Police Lt Jenks 

for maneuvering Detachment Captain Allen Lt hubbort & 
Wheaton and Ens Pratt 

Head Quarters May :20 : 80 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | l° cS Hr''°°'"* 
B : Major Clintons Brigade 

Details Starks Brigade ' 

CSSCDFP 
o I 3 3 I I 35 

Brigade Ordej-s \ 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Regimental orders 
For Main Guard tomorrow Ens Greenman 
for Camp Guard Ens Pratt for Police Lt Jeruld 



Appendix II 323 

Head Quarters May 211 780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow \ ^fU^MT 

( Lt Col Cill 

Brigade Major Starks Brigade 

To Provent in futor an Inconvencies and Irreggularity 
Which the Gen^ Informed has Been happened of Late Insending 
Reports of the (Morristown) Guards to their Brigades Who Did 
Not Come Properly Supplied with Provisions In order to 
Obtain Certificates from their Commissarys of their having Pro- 
visions Due them that they Might be furnished in Town 

The Brigade Maj^ are (Previous to there men going on the 
Grand Parade) to Examine the State of their Provisions and if 
they are Not Supplied they are to Send the Necessary Certificates 
from the Brig^ Commissary by the Adj of the Day Who will 
Deliver them to the officer of the Guard In Which the men are 
and will be Voucher of the Commissary in Town for Charging 
Resptive Brig*^ With the Issues made In Consiquence 

Col Crage Lt Col Wissinfall Maj C Steward and Talbord to 
Command the Manouvering Batalions Adj from first Pennsylva- 
nia and Stark's Brig*^ and Colours as before. The Batalion is to 
Parade at Six oClock tomorrow morning Maj Church to Attend 
their formation &c 

The Pensylvania Connecticut Divisions and Hands Brigade 
gives the Morristown Guards and fatigues the Insuen week. 

A Gen' Court Martial of the Line to Assemble tomorrow 
Morning at Nine oClock at the hut Lately occpied by Maj 
Windon for the Trayl of Such Prisoners as Shall Come before 
them Col Gansevort to Perside. Lt Col Willet Maj I more A 
Capt and one Subaltern from the Pensylvania Division two 
Capt and one Subaltern from the Connecticut Division A Capt 
and Sub from hands Brig^^ A Capt and Sub from Clintons and 
one Sub from Starks^ to Attend as Members 

Two orderly Serg^ from Connecticut Division to wait on 
the Court 

Brigade Orders 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovall 

Captain of the Day from Col Angells Regiment a Subaltern 
from Col Angell for Gen' Court Martial Adj Rogers to Attend 
the Manouvering Batalion 

Regimental Orders 

Captain of the Day tomorrow Humphry 
for Gen' Court Martial Wheaton 
for Police Ens Masury 

for Manouvering Detachment Capt C Olney Lt Jeruald 
and Jenks 



324 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters May 22:1780 

Parole Csign 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | f ?^;>A"4^^^ ^. ^ 

( Lt Col Huntington 

B. Major first Connecticut Brigade 

B Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Regimental Orders 

for Camp Guard tomorrow Lt Jeruld 

for Police Ens Green 
[Note. — One of the details supplied by the brigade was a sergeant 
and six privates for "Baron Steuben's Guard."] 



Head Quarters May 23; 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow \ 9?^^^^\^ 

^ I Lt Col° Murrey 

Brigade Major 2d Pensylvania Brigade 

Lt Col Com^^* Butler and Hubbey Majors Trestcot and Parr 
to Command the Manouvering Battalions two Adjts from the 
Connecticut Division Colours as before Brigade Maj from Clin- 
tons Briga*^ to Attend the formation of the Manouvering Bat- 
talion tomorrow Morning six oClock A Sub two Sergts and Twen- 
ty men for Fatigue they will be at the Half Moon Tavern to- 
Morrow morning at nine oClock and Receive Instructions from 
Mr Shoot Deputy Q M Gen^ 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovell 

(Note. — The details called for 60 privates for Brigade Guard, 
six for the Baron's Guard, and 6 for Fatigue at Morristown, with 
officers and non-commissioned officers, also 64 men with officers, 
etc., for the manoeuvreing detachment.] 

Regimental Orders 
For Police Lt Hubbart 
for Manouvering Detachmant Ens Masury and Greenman 

Quarters Morristown May 24th:i78o 

Regimental Orders 

A Regimental Court Martial to Assemble this Morning at 
Eleven oClock as by order of Col Angell for the Troyel of Such 
Prisoners as Shall Come before them 



Appendix II 325 

Capt Allen to Preside Lts Jerauld Macomber Jenks and Peckham 
Members 

Head Quarters May 24th; 1780 
Officers of the Day tomorrow | MlfTore^^''' Huntington 
Brigade Maj first Pensylvania Brigade 

Tomorrow Each Regt must make a Return of Arms and accoter- 
ments Wanting 

No arms to be deliverd Waggoners Waiters of the Gen' field 
and Staff officers But only to those that are to Appear in Action 
Eight Musquets without Bayonets to be Deliverd Each Regi- 
ment for the Camp Coullorman those returns must be signed 
by the Colo or officers Commanding Battalions and Csigned by 
the Regimental Q Master and to be Delivered to the Briga^ In- 
spectors Who are to Digest them into the Brigade Returns and 
Sign it they then are to be Deliverd the Brig<i Conductors Who 
are to Persent them to the Genl of Artilery for an order for 
their Delivery on the field Commissary After the Brigade Con- 
ductor shall have Received the Stores from the field Commissary 
he is to Deliver them to the Regimental QMaster According to 
the Returns Who are to Recept to the Conductors for them 

Previous to the Reseption of the new Arms and accoterments 
in Porsesion of Regt or Brig<^ Conductors must be Delivered to 
the field Commissary of Military Stores and the Colonels and 
Commanding officers of Battalions are to be Responsible that 
all Damaged and Spair Arms and Accouterments be Deliverd In 
and Arms and accouterments to be Deliverd to the men only. 

At a Brigade Genl Court Martial Whereof Maj Read was 
President the 13th Instant Corporal Thomas Gierke of the fourth 
and Thos Calvin of the Eleventh Pensylvania Regiment Ware 
Tryed for attempting to Desert to the Enemy With their Arms 

The Court are of Oppinion that they are gulty of the Breech 
of the first Article Sixth Section of the Articles of War more than 
two thirds of the Court Agreaing and Sentance them to Suffer 
Death. 

The Commander In Chief Approves the Sentence 

Division Orders 
The Division Gen' Court Martial Whereof Lt Col Com^t 
Wissenfall was President is Disolved 

B: Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

a Brigad Gen' Court Martial to set tomorrow Morning Nine 



326 Orderly Book 

oClock at the Presidents Quarters for the Tryel of Such Prisoners 
as may be Brought Before them Maj Trestcot will Preside 

Details 
[Three captains, nine subalterns for Court Martial; 70 men 
and officer for brigade guard.] 

Regimental Orders 

For Camp Guard tomorrow Lieut Jenck 

for Police Lieut Peckham 

for Briga^ Gen^ Court Martial Captains Coggshall Olney & 
Allen Ensigns Greene Masury Greenman and Pratt Lieuts 
Jerauld and Macomber 

Head Quarters May 25th 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow B : Gen Starks 

Maj C Stuart 
Brigade Maj 2d Pensylvania Brig*^ 

Crimnals under the Sentance of Death are to be Executed to- 
morrow Morning at Eleven oClock Near the Grand Parade 
fifty men Properley Officered from Each Brigade to Attend 
The Camp Cullerman from the Connecticut Pensylvania and 
York Line under the Direction of A Sergt from Each are to 
Dege their Graves this Afternoon 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Meigs 

Captain of the Division Guard from Col Jacksons Regt 

Details 

B. Guard Parade Nine oClock 

SSCDP CSSCP 
A I 2 22 I I I 17 

W I I 2 II 113 

J I 2 I 27 I I I I 21 

I 3 6 I 60 I 2 3 3 47 

Regimental Orders 
The Men Who are to attend at the Execution of the Crem- 
nals to Morrow to be Dresed in uniform and as Clean as Possible 
The Regimental Court Martial Whereof Captain Allen as Presi- 
dent is Desolved 

A Regimental Court Martial Whereof Capt Allen was resi- 
dent the 24 Instant Daniel Ellis of Capt Humpherys Company 



Appendix II 327 

Was Tryed for Bouying A Pair of Shoes of A Soldier in Col 
Jacksons Regiment Contrary to orders and without Permision 
of his officers the prisoner Plead Gulty to the Charge but in 
his Defence Saith that the Soldier Deliverd them to Be his own 
property and that he should not Come under any Blame for 
Purching them the Court upon Meture Deliberration Do Sen- 
tance the Prisoner to be Repermanded. 

Regimental Orders 
The Colonel Confirms the Precedings of the Court and at 
the same time is astonished that Ellis should have the Daring 
Presuption to Purchas Clothing of the Soldiers of any C'md 
Without their having Certificate from the Commanding officer 
of the Corps which they Belong that it is thier own Property 
and the acquaning the Captain or Commanding officer of the 
Company Shall he be found gulty of such a Breech of orders 
Infuter he may Exspect to be Severly Punished as no Plea of 
Ignorance will Be admited of heere After Ellis is Relece from 
his Confinment 

For Police tomorrow Lieut Hubbart 

for the Detachment to attend at the Execution of the Crim- 
nals Lieut Peckham 

Head Quarters May 26th; 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow Brig^"" Gen^ Ervine 

Major Read 
Brigad Maj Church 

for Manoeuvering Col^ Levingstone & Johnston Lts Cols 
Sumner and Hay 

Adjts from the 2d Pensylvania and hands Brigade. Colours 
as usual Brigade Maj Bradford to attend formation 

four Battalions to Manoeuvrer Next Monday on the Common 
Near Col (Abites?) Manoeuvering officers Col^ Coartland 
Gansoveart Jackson and Angell Lieuts Willet Robinson and 
Montegust and Huntington they are to be formed on the ground 
at Seven oClock Presisly Eight Peaces of Artilery are to be 
annexed to these battalions the Manouevering Officers for the 
Battalion and the officers that are to Command the artilery 
are to attend the exercise tomorrow Morning. Clintons Starks 
and the Connecticut Brigades Each gives a Adjt for the Bat- 
talions Colurs from the first Pensylvania Clintons and Starks and 
the Second Connecticut Brigade. 

the Court Martials are to adjourn over till Next Tuesday 
and the Officers Composeing them to have the Previledges of 
Joining the Battalions if Next for Manoeuvering Duty. 



328 Orderly Book 

A Trusty Corporal from Starks Brigade and a Trusty Soldier 
from each other Brigades to Parade tomorrow on the Grand 
Parade with their arms Pcks and Blankets and thence to be 
Sent to Commissary Gambles they will Remain on this Duty 
Untill their Regiments move from this Ground. 

the Guards the Same as this Day 

Brigade Orders 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovell 

at A Brigade Gen^ Court Martial held in Camp 25*^ of May 
By order of Col Com'^'^ Jackson was Tryed John De Armor A 
Soldier in Col Angell Regt Charged with grossily abausing 
Katherine Slover an Inhabitant of Morristown and threating 
to sett hur house on fire the Court after Due Deliberation and 
Considering the Evidence are fully of opinion that he is gulty 
of a Breach of Article 5 Section the 18 of the Articles of war and 
Do Sentence him to Receive one hundred stripes on his Naked 
Back 

Col Commandant Jackson Approves the Sentance and orders 
it Put in Execution at the head of the Brigade this Eving at 
Retreat Beating 

the Court Martial of Which Maj Trestcot is Desolved 

Regimental Orders 
for Camp guard tomorrow Lieut Peckham 
for Police Lt Jencks 
for Manoeuvring Capt Allen Ensigns Greene and Pratt 



Head Quarters May 27th 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow j Col Stuart 

^ ( Maj Levenworth 

Brigade Maj from Clintons Brigade 

A Corp' and Six Privates from the first Pensylvania Brigade 
with two Days Provisions and their arms to be Sent tomorrow 
Morning at 7 oClock to Gen' Greenes Quarters at Morristown 
they will Receive their orders from him 

Details for Manoeuvering on Monday 
Starks Brigade 2 C 7 S 10 Nco 8 DF 95 P. 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 

Regimental Orders 
for Camp Guard tomorrow Lt Hubbart 
for Police Lt Macomber 



Appendix II 329 

Head Quarters May 28th 11780 
Officers of the Day tomorrow | ^^^ iVore 

Brigade Maj from Starks Brigade 

the Pensylvania Division Hands and Starks Brigades gives 
the morristown guards and Fatigues this week. 

a Detachment from the Line to Parade tomorrow at guard 
Mounting with three Days Provisions Blanket and forty Rounds 
Per man Major Talburt to take Command of them 

A Surgeon or Mate from Starks Brigade to join the Detach- 
ment. 

the Manoeuvering BattaHons Instead Parading on the ground 
at Seven oClock as Mentioned on the 26 Instant are to be formed 
in the Road the Rear of the QMaster Genl Persesley at five 
oClock tomorrow Morning When they will Receive Blank 
Cartridges. 

Major Alexander to attend their formation. 

Sixteen of (Marichansice?) Light Draggons with a Com- 
missioned Officer to Attend at the same time and Place. 

Col Stuart and Crage are to Command two of the Manoeuver- 
ing Battalions tomorrow Vice Col^ Cortland and Gansevort 
and Lieut Col Murrey Vice Lt Col Willet obliged to be absent. 

Second Pensylvanea Brigade to furnish a Regimental Stan- 
dard Vice Clintons. 

at A Genl Court Martial Whereof Col Eliot was President 
held at Newport the first Instant Windsor fry Soldier of Col 
Greenes Regt Was Tryd for Entering the Commissary Store 
Steeling from thence a Quantay of Beef Candales and Rum also 
Braking Open two Windmills and Steeling a Quantay of Me'll. 
Plead gulty the Court having Meturely Considered the heanirses 
of his Present Crimes togeather with his former bad Conduct 
are Unamineausly of opinion that he Suffer Death, the Com- 
mander In Chief conferms the Sentance and orders it to be Put 
in Execution at Such time and Place as Col Greene shall think 
Proper. 

Barron Stuben will be at Gen^ hands Quarters at five oClock 
this Afternoon Where he Requests the attendance of the field 
officers who are for the Manoeuvering Detachment with the 
Adjudents of the Same. 

Col harmer Majors Church fish & Alexander will Pleas also 
to attend at the same time and Place 

all the Drums and fifes Major of the army Attend Likewise. 

The men for Manoeuvering to Picked that there may not be 
as many boys as Last Exercise 

NB the men are also to have Bayonets 

By order of Maj Gen^ Stuben 



330 Orderly Book 

Brigade Orders 

Adj of the Day tomorrow Meigs 

Adj Lovall to Attend the Manoeuvering Battilions tomorrow 
A Surgeon from Col Webbs Regt for Detachment 

Regimental Orders 

for Detachment tomorrow Capt C Olney and Lt Jeruald 

for Camp guard Ens Greene 

for Police Ens Pratt 

for Manoeuvering Detachment Capt Humphrey Lts Ma- 
comber Jenk and Peckham Ensigns Masury and Greenman. 
NB Lt Jenks for Detachment Cald for After the Details was 
given out Ens Pratt for Manoeuvering No officer for Police. 



HeadQuarters May 29th: 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow \ ^,^ Col Com^t Sherman 
■' ( Maj Chapman 

Brigade Major first Connecticut Brigade 

Colo Meig is Appointed President of the Gen^ Court Martial 
Vice Col Gansevoort and Lt Col Sumner Vice Lt Col Willet a 
Captain from Hands Brigade and A Sub from the Second Pen- 
sylvania Vice a Captain & a Sub from the Second Pensylvania 
Vice a Captain & a Sub from Clintons Brig'^. 

the Court Martial of Which Col Meigs is President is to 
Assemble at Lt Col Willits hut in the York Line tomorrow 
Morning Nine oClock 

The Gen^ Orders will be Issued at Col Cortlands Hut 

Regimental Surgeons are Requested to Send after Such 
Medicines as they may Want to Supply their Chests to the 
Apothecary Shoop at Veal Town Wheir they will be furnished 
as far as the state of the Store will admit 

A Particular Return of all Publick Insterments and their 
Condition to be made as Soon as Possible to the Surgeon Gen^ 
of the Army 

Details for Morristown 

Starks Brigade 1S3S3C1D1F32P 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Lovell 

Regimental Orders 

for Morristown Guard tomorrow Ens Masury 
for Police Ens Pratt 



Appendix II 331 

Head Quarters May 30th: 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | Mi^T^esTcoT''^ 

Brigade Maj 2d Connecticut Brigade 

for Manoeuvering tomorrow Morning Six oClock Lt Col° 
Comdt Butler and Hubbley Majs Tory & Stuart Maj of Brig^ 
from the first Connecticut to attend the formation of the Bat- 
talion Hands & Starks Brig'^^ the Adjdt Colours from the Second 
Connecticut and Starks. 

the Pensylvania Division gives a Capt and Six men as A 
Horse Guard at Mr Churches to be Relev^^ Weekly 

the Connecticut Division gives a Capt & four men as A 
Guard for the QM Gen^ they are to be Releved Every two Days. 

the Commander In Chief is Pleas to order a Retrial of all 
Prisoners under Confinment accept Prisoners of War and those 
of the first Connecticut Brigade Confind for Mutineay. 

OBryan Late Provost Martial to Return to his Duty in the 
Reg* from Whence he was taken. 

at a Genl Court Martial of the Line the 23 Instan* Col Ganse- 
voort Presi*^* Mr Alexander Church Supertandant of Continental 
horses Was Tryed first for Supporting at Publick Expense Six 
horses or more Which he Clamd as Privat Prperty 

Secondly for a Proprapreateing to his own use a Waggon 
and four horses Which he Clamd as his own and for Receving 
Publick hire for the Same and Publick Forage for the horses 

thardly for Permiting two men Employd under him to Purch"" 
Poor horses In the Continental yard and feeding them on Publick 
Forage 

4 : for taking a horse out of the Continental yard at his own 
Estermation or Price of thirty three Dollars which was Worth 
a thousand and for feading him on Publick Forage. 

the Court are of opinion that the Charges are Not Supported 
and Do theirfore fully acquit Mr Church 

the Commander In Chief Conforms the Opinion of the Court 
Mr Church is Relevd from his arrest 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Rogers 
Adj to attend the Manoeuvering Meigs 

Regimental Orders 

for Morristown Guard tommorrow Capt Himiphery 
for Camp Guard Ens Greenman 
for Police Ens Greene 

for Manoeuvering Detachment Lieuts Macomber Peckham 
and Hubbart 



332 Orderly Book 

Headquarters May 3151:1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | Ma'o? p'arr^'^ 

Brigade Major ist Pensylvania Brigade 

Brigade Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Meigs 

Captain of the Day tomorrow from Colo Angell Regiment. 

Regimental Orders 

for Morristown Guard tomorrow Ens Pratt 

for Police Lieut Hubbort 

Captain of the Day Allen 

the Captain or Commanding officer will in futer Evry Sataday 
Morning Inspect their mens Dress Necessary arms accoterments 
and ammunition Agreeball to the Instructions of the 20 Chapter 
of the Regulations for Which Perpose the Regiment will Parade 
at five oClock in the Morning When it is Expected Every man 
that is able & Waiters and Camp Cullormen Not Excepted Will 
attend with Every Article of Clothing and Necessarys in their 
Presession. 

if the officers of Police Exammen the huts shold find any that 
is Dirty and Not in so good order as they ort to be he must 
Emmeadeatly Report them to the Commanding officer of the 
Company that may be Quartred in them Who will Call the 
Non^ officers under who Care these Squads may be to a Strict 
account for Neglect of Duty In Not Complying with the Regi- 
mental order of the first of march Last. 

James Hopkins of Captain Wm Hiunpherys Company Who 
was Reduced from a Sergt to a Privat Sentinel By the jugement 
of a Regimental Court Marteal the Sexth of Last April is at 
the Request of his Captain & for his good Behavour Sence 
Restored to his former Rank and it is to be hoped he will Still 
Endevour to Retrive his Charcter or Such Indulgence as this 
will Never be Extended to him upon a futer Occation of the kind 



Head Quarters June ist 11780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow \ yr • pi • <- 

Brig<^ Major Venleer 

A Trustey Serjeant and Corporal and Nine Men from Starks 
Brigade with their arms Blanketts and three Days Provision to 
be sent to the Adj Gen^ Quarters at Eight oClock tomorrow 
Morning to guard Prisoners of War to Philadelphia 

at the Genl Court Martial of the Line Whereof Col° Ganse- 



Appendix II 333 

voort was President the 25 ult^ Lieut Hunt of the 4 New York 
Regiment Was Tryed for Marching the old Main Guard the 
nth of May Last to Camp in A Disorderly manner and Permit- 
ting the Men to Straggle Contraray to the orders of the Army. 

the Court are of opinion that Lt Hunt is gulty of the Charge 
that Exhibited against him being a Breech of that Part of the 
third Article of 22 Chapter of the Regulations for the order 
and Displine of the Troops which Respects marching the old 
Guard to Camp and Do Sentance him to be Repremanded In 
Gen^ orders. 

The Commander In Chief Confarms the opinion of the Court 

the Conduct of Lieut Hunt was highly unmilitary and Blame- 
ble two frequent Instances a Curr of Similiray Iregularety and 
they are at all times In excusible Lt Hunt is Relevd from his 
arrest 

B Orders 

Adjt of the Day tomorrow Lovall 

Captain of the Day to Morrow from Col Jackson Regt 

Regimental orders 
for Camp Guard tomorrow Lt Peckham 
Police Ens Pratt 

Head Quarters June 2d; 1780 

officers of the Day tomorrow | ^^. £^^^,^5 

Brigade Maj Church 

for Manoeuvering Col° Levingston Lt Col° Com'^ Sherman 
Major Read and Levingworth Adj and Colours from the first 
Pensylvania and Connecticut Brigades the Manoeuvering Bat- 
talions to Parade Near the half Moon Tarvorn at 6 oClock 
tomorrow Morning Brigade Major 2d Connecticut Brig to Attend 
the formation 

Brigade orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Rogers 
Captain of the Day from Col Angells Regiment 
the Brig'i will be Mustered After noon at two oClock it is 
Expected the Arms &c will Be in the Best order the men Neat 
and Clean Col° Angells Regiment will be on the Parade Prosesely 
at two oClock 

Regimental Orders 
Captain of the Day tomorrow Humphery 
for Manoeuvering Ensigns Greene Masury and Greenman 
NB Ens Greene Cal^ for Detachments Lieut Macomber for 
Manoeuvering 



334 Orderly Book 

Head Quarters June 3^ : 1 780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow { ESS Cdo Halght""*"''™ 

Brig^ Major Bradford 

Brigade Return Regimentally Disgested of all their Espon- 

toons Wanting In the Several Regiments to be made ToMorrow 

Morning at orderly time 

Brigade Orders 
Adj* of the Day tomorrow Meigs 
Captain of the Day from Col° Webbs Regiment 

Regimental Orders 
For Main Guard Tomorrow Lieut Hubbart 
for Camp Guard Ens Masury 
for Police Ens Greenman 



HeadQuarters June 4th ; 1 780 

cc r 4.1, -nv ^ i Brigadier Gen^ Starks 

officers of the Day tomorrow j j^ieut Col« Hay 

Brigade Maj i^* Connecticut Brig^ 

The Connecticut Line to be Inspected Tomorrow by the 
Inspector Gen^ 

The Inspection to be at Six oClock tomorrow Morning 

Brigade orders 
Adj*^ of the Day tomorrow Lovell 
Captain of the Day from Col Angells Regiments 

Regimental orders 
Captain of the Day tomorrow Stephen Olney 
For Morristown Guard Ens Greenman 
for Camp Guard Ens Pratt 
for Police Lieut Peckham 

Head Quarters June 5th; 1780 

Officers of the Day tomorrow | lSS'co^ S^iir""^ 
Brig'^ Maj 2d Connecticut Brigd 

For Manoeuvering Jackson and (Humton ?) Majors Chaman 
/and Trestcot 
1/ Colours from the first and 2d Pensylvania Brigades the 
Second Pensylvania and Hands gives the Adj*^ Brigade Maj"" 
Second Pensylvania Briga"^ to attend the formation of the Bat- 
talions Which are to Parade at the usell Place tomorrow morning 
at Six oClock Second Pensylvania, hands and Starks Brigades 
gives the Morristown Guard the Insuing week. 



Appendix II 335 

Six Camp Cullermen from hands Brigade under the care of a 
Corpol to be Sent to morristown tomorrow Morning at 7 oClock 
Mr Shoot will give them Deretions 

Regimental orders 

for Camp Guard tomorrow Lt Macomber 

for Police Ens Masury 

for Manoeuvering Captain Allen Lieuts Sayles Peckham and 
Hubbart. 

at A Regimental Court Martial Whierof Capt Tew was 
President Joseph Wheeler Was Tryed for Insulting Behavour to 
Mr Jacob Weed the Prisoner Pleads gulty to the Charge The 
Court thierfore Do Sentance him to Receve thirty Lashes on 
his Naked Back But as Apears to be Very Penitent and Sorry 
for his Conduct towards Mr Weed the Court Do Recommend 
him to the Col° for Pardon. 

Thomas Charles of Col" Angell Company Was Tryed at the 
Same Court for getting Drunk after being Regulery Warn^^ for 
Duty the Prisoner Pleads gulty to the Charge But in Excuse 
for his Conduct Saith he Drank one gill of Rum Which Ap- 
perataed More Stronger on him than usell as he had Not Drunk 
any Liquer in a Long time. 

the Court are of Appinion that he Recive thirty Lashes on 
his Naked Back But In Consideration of his former good Con- 
duct Do Recommend a Suspenation of the Sentance During his 
good Behavour. the Col° Confirms the Sentance of the Court 
Pardons Wheeler and Suspends the Sentance against Charles 
During thier good behavour and orders them boath Relesed from 
thier Coniiment. 

The Court Whierof Capt Tew was President is Desolved 



Head Quarters June 6th: 1780 

cc f 4.-U T\ i. \ Col Butler 

officers of the Day tomorrow -j ^^^^^ ^^^^^ 

Brig'^ Major Alexander 

A Sub from hands Brigade to Releve the Sub from Clintons 
Now Superintending the Hospitel at Pluckimin he is to Receve 
Instructions from the officer that he Releves. 

Six Camp Cullermen from Starks Brigade un'^ the Command 
of A Corpi to be Sent to Commissaryes Caine Quarters Early 
tomorrow Morning. 

Brigade Orders 
Adj of the Day tomorrow Meigs 

[Three sheets are apparently torn away between this, the 
last entry in the book, and the cover.] 



APPENDIX III 
Officer Personnel of the Rhode Island Line 

[Copy of an enclosure in a letter of Gov. Cooke, dated Providence, Nov. 6, 1776, 
printed in R. I. Col. Rec, Vol. 8, pp. 54-5.] 



State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations 

In General Assembly. October Sessions A. D. 1776. — 

Both Houses being resolved into a Grand-Committee made 
Choice of the following Gentlemen as Officers in the two Battal- 
ions or Regiments to be raised by this State agreeable to requisi- 
tion of Congress 

I. Battalion 

James Mitchel Varnum Esq Colonel. Adam Comstock Esq 
Lieut Col° Henry Sherburne Esq Major. 

Captains 

Ebenezer Flagg. Silas Talbut. Thomas Cole, John S. 
Dexter. Simeon Martin. Jonathan Wallen. 

If' Lieutenants: 

Joseph Arnold. William Belcher. Timothy Lock. Samuel 
Bissell. Wilson Rawson. William Potter. Handy. Thomas 
Noyes 

2^ Lieutenants. 

Ichabod Prentice, John Chapman. John Remington. 

Ensigns 
Zephaniah Bo wen 

Staff Officers 

Clarke Brown Quarter Master. Jonathan J. Hazard, pay- 
master. 

336 



Appendix III 337 

2D Battalion. 

Daniel Hitchcock Esq Colonel. Israel Angel Esq Lieut Col. 
Christopher Smith Esq Major 

Captains. 

Jeremiah Olney, William Tew. Coggeshal Olney. Ephraim 
Bowen, William Bradford. John Carr. Abimelech Riggs — 

7^' Lieutenants 
Stephen Olney. William Allen. William Littlefield. Gilbert 
Grano. Joseph Whitmarsh. Daniel Peirce. Amos Crandell. Micah 
Moulton. 

2 Lieutenants 
Thomas Hughes. Duty Jerrald. 

Ensigns 

Ebenezer West. Holliman Potter. Thomas Waterman. 
Oliver Jencks. Richard Hunniwell. 

Staff-Officers 

Cyprian Sterry Quarter Master. Charles Holden Pay- 
Master. 

A true copy 

Witness Henry Ward Secry. 



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Ephraim Weeden 
John Holdon 
Wm Potter 


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Christopher Greene Lt Colonel 

John Murray Chaplain 
John S. Dexter Adjutant 
Clarke Brown Q* Master 
Joseph Joslyn SQgeon 
John Mauvide Mate 


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Oliver Clarke 
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Timothy Lock 
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Wm Potter 


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Elijah Lewis 
John S. Dexter 
Josiah Gibbs 
Thos Cole 
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Oliver Clarke 

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Samuel Ward 
Archib. Crary 
Edmund Johnson 
Ethan Clarke 
Christ Smith 
James Gardner 

Joseph Halloway 


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Israel Angell Major 

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Ebenbzer Richmond Surgeon 
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William Allen 
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Reuben Sprague 
Artemas Fenner 


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John Field 

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Silas Talbut 
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Thomas Church Colonel 
Wm Turner Miller Lt Colonel 
Henry Sherburne Major 
John Murray Chaplin 
William Bradford Jf Adjutant 
Jeremiah Childs Qt Master 
Isaac Senter Surgeon 
Bentamin Greene Mate 




S3 

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o 

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James Child 
James Webb 
Thomas Hughes 

Cornelius Briggs 
Edward Slocum 

Noel Allen 
W? Southward 


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George Tennant 
Lemuel Bailey 
James Smith 
Nathl Church 
Israel Church 
Sylvenas Shaw 
Joseph Perry 
Moses Turner 


Oi 










Lion Martindale 
John Topham 
William Tew 
Matthew Allen 
Aaron Wilbur 
William Cook 
Jona Brownall 
Ebenezer Flagg 
Thomas Gray 


Oi 





340 



Appendix III 



341 



The two pages which follow are endorsed on the back. 

"Colonel Vamum would have been recommended for a Colonel of one 
of the Regiments but he refuses to serve." 

"Recommended from the different Regiments the within Arrangement 
for constituting the two Rhode Island Regiments upon the new Estab- 
lishment." 

"Included in this Arrangement the following Officers now prisoners of 
War — Lt Colo Christopher Greene Cap* Samuel Ward — Cap* John 
Topham — Capt Simeon Thayer — Lt James Webb — Lt Willm Humphreys 
and Ensign Edward Slocum." 

"N.B. It is not meant that the within Arrangement shall determine 
the Rank of the Captains and Subaltern Officers." 

[Endorsed] Recomd of Officers 

Transmitted 
GovR Cooke 
II, 12 & 13 Oct' 



RETURN OF OFFICERS RECOMMENDED FOR THE NEW 
ESTABLISHMENT, i. e., FOR THE YEAR 1777 



FIELD OFFICERS, RECOMMEND?. 



Daniel Hitchcock, Colonel. 
Israel Angell, L* Colonel. 
Christopher Smith, Major. 



officers in service recommended 



Captains 


/^' Lieuten'f^ 2^ Lieu\^^ 


Ensigns 


Teremh Olney 
William Tew 
Coggeshall Olney 
Ephraim Bowen 
Simeon Thayer 
Willm Bradford 
Carr 
Riggs 


Stephen Olney 
William Allen 
Willm Littlefield 

Grant 
Joseph Whitmarsh 
Daniel Peirce 
Amos Crandall 
Micah Moulton 


Thomas Hughs 
James Webb 
WmHumphrey 

Duty Jerrald 


Ebenr West 
Holiman Potter 
Thos Waterman 

Oliver Jencks 
Richd Hunnewell 



STAFF OFFICERS RECOMMENDED 



Chaplain 
Adjutant 
CvPEAN Steery Qr Master 
Surgeon 
Mate 



342 



Roster 



FIELD OFFICERS RECOMMENDD 



Christopher Greene Colonel 
Adam Comstock L* 
Henry Shurburne Major 



OFFICERS in service RECOMMENDED 



Captains 


7^.' Lfew/'f 


2d Lieu\s, 


Ensigns 


Samuel Ward 


Joseph Arnold 


Ichabod Prentice 




John Topham 


Willm Belcher 






Ebenr Flagg 


Timothy Lock 




ZepheniahBrowne 


Silas Talbut 


Saml Bissell 






Thos Cole 


Rawson 


John Chapman 




John S. Dexter 


Willm Potter 






Martin 


Handy 


Edward Slocum 




Wallin. 


Noice 


John Remmington 





STAFF OFFICERS RECOMMENDED 



Chaplain 
Adjt 
Clarke Browne Qr Master 
Surgeon 
Mate 



Camp, December i6th, 1777 
Sir— 

The within List contains a true account of the appointments 
of the Officers of the first Rhode Island Battalion according to 
the present Establishment, and their present Ranks; and we 
desire they may receive Commissions expressive thereof. 

J Varnum B. Genl. 
His Excellency Genl Washington. C. Greene Coin 

I. Angell Colo. 

Time of 
appoint. 

Col: Christopher Greene ist Jany 

Lt. Col. Adam Comstock do 

Major Saml Ward do 

Capt. Eben' Flagg do 

Capt. Silas Talbut do 

Capt. Elijah Lewis do 



Appendix III 343 



Time of 
appoint, 

Capt. Oliver Clarke nth Febr 

Capt. Thorns Cole ist Jany 

Capt. John S. Dexter do 

Capt. Thorns Arnold 2ist March 

Capt. Jonathan Wallen ist Jany 

Lieut. Joseph Arnold do 

Lieut. Joseph Whitmarsh do 

Lieut Edward Slocum do 

Lieut Daniel Pierce nth Febr 

Lieut William Davis do 

Lieut Micah Whitmarsh 14th do 

Lieut Sami Hicks 17th Apl 

Lieut Elias Hull ist Jany 

2d Lt. Elias Thompson 19th Feb 

2d Lt. Robert Rogers 20th do 

2d Lt. Saml. Arnold nth Feb 

2d Lt. Zephaniah Brown do 

2d Enoch Stanton 20th do 

2d Lt. Gideon Casey do 

2d Lt. John Pierce 17th do 

2d Lt. David Johnson i ith do 

Ens. Charles Pierce do 

Ens. EHas Blanchard do 

Ens. Joseph Cornell 20 June 

Ens. Stephen Briggs 20 Feby 

Ens. John Bowls 24 June 

Ens. Daniel P. Tillinghast nth Feby 

Ens. Dan Greene nth Apl 

Ens. Simeon Snaith 7th June 

STAFF 

Chapn Charles Thompson 17th March 

Surgeon Peter Turner loth May 

Mate Tames Palascum 26th do» 

Adjt. John Holden ist Jany 

Qr Mr. John Cooke ist May 

P. Masr Griffin Greene 18 July 

[Endorsed] Arrangement of Colo. Greenes R. Isld Regt Commissioned 
except the Staff. 

ARRANGEMENT OF THE RHODE ISLAND BATTALIONS, 1778-^' 



FIRST REGIMENT 



Colo. Christopher Greene 3 Thomas Cole 

Lt Col Adam Comstock 4 John S. Dexter 

Major Samuel Ward 5 Thomas Arnold 

^ . 6 Daniel Peirce 
Captams — 

1 Ebenezer Flagg Ensigns — 

2 Elijah Lewis i . Daniel Tillinghast 

' With exception of Ensign John Cook, the arrangement as here given was 
that known as the "Arrangement of Nov. 15, 1778," made at White Plains. 



344 Roster 

2. John Cook 5 John Hold en 

3. Charles Pearce 6 Zephaniah Brown 

4. Elias Blanchard 7 Enoch Stanton 

5 Joseph Cornall 8 Samuel Arnold 

6 Griffin Greene t?„^;„„o 

7 [John Cook] Ensigns- 

Captain Lieut Edward Slocum 9 

Lieutenants — Adjt John Holden 

1 Joseph Arnold Paymaster 

2 David Johnson • Surgeon Peter Turner 

3 Elias Thompson Mate John Parish 

4 Robert Rodgers 

N. B. Oliver Clarke Cap. to be restored to his rank if released on the 
first vacancy. 

SECOND RHODE ISLAND REGIMENT 

Colonel Israel Angell. 
L* Col. Jeremiah Olney 
Major Simeon Thayer 

Captains — 

1 . William Tew 5 Thomas Hughes 

2. Coggeshall Olney W"}; Humphrey 

3 Stephen Olney 6. [William Potter] 

4 William Allen 

Capt. Lieut. [William Humphrey] W21 Littlefield - i Jan — 1777. 

Lieutenants — 

1 [Ebenezer Macumber] Duty Jarald 1 1 Feb 1777. 

2 [Ebenezer West] Tho. C. Waterman do do 

3 [Dutyjerald] Ebenezer Macumber June 12, 1777. 

4 [William Littlefield] David Sales do do 

5 [Thomas Waterman] Oliver Jenks 25 June 1777. 

6 [David Sales] Benedict Tew — Jan i, 1778 

7 [Oliver Jenks] Abel Carpenter — do do 

8 [Benedict Tew] Thomas Waterman Jr. do. do. 

Ensigns — 

1 [Bethael Curtis] rank as 2 Lt 

2 [Abel Carpenter] D° 

3 [Oliver Dexter] D" 

4 [Thomas Waterman] Jun' 

5 Benjamin Peckham July 11, 1777. 

6 [Elijah Hawkins] 

7 [David Lawrence] 

8 [John Vial] (?) 

9 [Josiah Thornton] 

Adjutant Thomas Waterman 

Paymaster 

Surgeon Samuel Tenny 

Mate Elias Cornelius 

Names within brackets crossed out in the original. 



H 



Appendix III 



345 



OFFICERS ON THE SUPERNUMERARY LIST [NoV. 1 778.] 
To be specially Recommended. Supemumv not Recommended. 

1ST RegT- 



1. Cap. Jonathan Wallen 

2. Lt. Elias Hull 

3. Lt. Gideon Oakes 

4. Lt. David Johnson 



1. Dan. Box Brigr Major — 

Wounded, and unfit for 
the Service 

2. Nathan Wix Lt. lost an 

Eye in the Service 



1. Lt. Mical Whitmarsh 

2. Lt. Wm Davis. 



2D Regt. 



1 . David Dexter Cap. 

2. Lt. Simeon Jennings. 



[Endorsement] Arrangement of New Hampshire — Massachusetts and 
Rhode Island — and Connecticut — 

By Committee at White Plains with some few alterations. 
Copy. 



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Roster 



Return of Officers, Rhode Island Battalion, 
April, 1783. 



Names. 


Rank. 






Jeremiah Olney 

John S. Dexter 

WilHam Allen 


LtCol?Comdt 

Major 

Capt. 

D? 

Do 

Do 

Do 

D? 

Lieut 

D? & P. M. 

D? 

D? 

D? 

D? 

D? 

D? & Adjt 

D? 

D? 

Do 

Do&Q. M. 

Ens£ 

D? 

Surgeon 


14th May 1 78 1 

14 May. 1781 

ist Jan 7. 1777 

23d June 1777 

loth Octr 1777 

22 Octr 77 

nth Novr 79 

14th May 81 

18 May 79 

9th June 79 

30th Augst 79 

I St May 80 
24th June 80 

14th May 81 
14th May 81 
3d Feby 82 
17th March 82 
I St May 82 
2nd July 81 
23dAugt 82 
ist Jan 7. -]-] 


fFurlowed by Lord 
1 Stirling, till isth of 


Thomas Hughes 

John Holden 


Apl, now sick at 
[ Woodbury. 


William Humphrey .... 

Zepheniah Brown 

Daniel S. Dexter 

John Hubbart 


f at Rhode Island, 
|Commd.by Majr.Ohney 

/at Head Quarters, or- 
1 der of Majr. Olney 

/at Albany order Colo. 
\ Olney 


Chandler Burlingame. . 

Joseph Wheaton 

John M. Green 

Joseph Massury 

Benjamin Shearbume. . 

Henry Shearman 

Jere Greenman 

William Pratt 


John Rogers 

William Ennis 

John Welch 




Robert Hunter 

Epraim Kirby 


fFurlowed by Lord 
\ Stirling till iSth of 
^ April 


Samuel Tenny 









[Endorsed] 
Rhode Island 
Battalions 



N. B. the officers are all present except those 

accounted for in the Remarks 

Saratoga 25th April 1783 

Jereh Olney Lieut Col. Comd 




standard of the 2d Rhode Island Regiment 



APPENDIX IV 



RETURN OF THE SECOND BATTALION IN THE STATE 

OF RHODE ISLAND, commanded by Col. ISRAEL 

ANGELL.^ 



Names. 


Last Residence. 


Names 


Last Residence 


Arthur Smith 


Newport 


Stephen Johnson 


Providence 


John Execon 


ditto 


Noah Chasey 


ditto 


Tohn Chadwick 


ditto 


William White 


ditto 


William Parker 


ditto 


Edward Everson 


ditto 


Francis Gold 


ditto 


Patrick Capon 


ditto 


John Gibbins 


ditto 


John Ragan 


ditto 


Abner Russel 


ditto 


John Amon 


ditto 


John Bently 


ditto 


Benjamin Gushing 


ditto 


Benjamin Fowler 


ditto 


Daniel Lawrence 


ditto 


Uriel Wilbour 


ditto 


Noah Siscoe 


ditto 


Nathan West 


ditto 


Durfey Springer 


ditto 


Edmond Pennigar 


ditto 


Church Winslow 


ditto 


Joseph Brown 


ditto 


Ebenezer Whitacar 


ditto 


Nicholas Wilson 


ditto 


James Hopkins 


ditto 


Richard Shield 


ditto 


Abijah Ford 


ditto 


Elisha Austin 


ditto 


Christopher Moore 


ditto 


John Horswell 


ditto 


Dennis Bagley 


ditto 


Daniel Phillips 


ditto 


William Forrester 


ditto 


Elias Bryer 


ditto 


James Hale 


ditto 


Jeremiah Greenman 


ditto 


William Middleton 


ditto 


Weston Clark 


ditto 


John Walton 


ditto 


Daniel Barney 


ditto 


Daniel Booth 


ditto 


James Mitchel 


ditto 


John Coats 


ditto 


Richard Pritchard 


ditto 


Hans Novande 


ditto 


Southcoat Langworthy 


ditto 


John S. Robertson 


ditto 


Benjamin Jackson 


ditto 


Michael Anthony 


ditto 


Dennis Hagan 


ditto 


Joseph Desdad 


ditto 


Michael Marigan 


ditto 


Thomas Graves 


ditto 


Asher Pollock 


ditto 


Thomas Swither 


ditto 


Prince Jackson 


ditto 


William Brown 


ditto 


Daniel Hudson 


Providence 


David Whitford 


North-Kingstown 


Philip Justin 


ditto 


Jeremiah Wilkey 


ditto 


Darius Thurber 


ditto 


Robert Alisburough 


ditto 


Nathan Gale 


ditto 


John Davis 


ditto 


William Bennet 


ditto 


Robert Dixon 


ditto 


James Hayden 


ditto 


Christopher J. Shearman 


ditto 



' This is a broadside in possession of Colonel George L. Shepley of Provi- 
dence. It is undated. The names are arranged in three columns, the resi- 
dence following each name. The " transients " are divided as follows: from 
New England, i; Massachusetts, 23; Connecticut, 5; New Hampshire, i; 
Pennsylvania, 4; Maryland, 2; total, 36. From England, 58; Ireland, 28; 
Scotland, 4; Wales, i ; total, 91. From France, 18; Portugal, i ; Germany, i. 

A very large proportion of these men were undoubtedly seamen. Many 
of the names of men whose residence is given as some Rhode Island town sug- 
gest a foreign origin, as, for instance, Hans Novande of Providence. A few 
names are plainly those of Indians and negroes. 

351 



352 



Roster 



Names. 
Franklin Tennant 

George Niles 
John Derus 

Abraham Hopkins 
Richard Thorp 

John York 
Job PVanklin 
Edward Payne 
John Derrel 
Edward Dodge 
Richard Pomp 
Jonathan Briggs 

John Strange 
David Collar 
Daniel Bragg 
Esek Dexter 

Stephen Phillips 
Jonathan Herrington 
Payne Hinds 
Richard Hinds 
William Edmonds 

Asa Johnson 
John Usher 
Samuel Potter 
Benjamin King 
Joseph Payne 

Job Palmer 
Abraham Springer 

William Thomas 

Joseph Kinyon 
Henry Perry 
Samuel Whompy 
Amos Mevas 
William Capon 
James Tuddel 
John Charles 
Gideon Harry 
Edward Harry 



Transient Persons 

Names. 
Aaron Martin 
Patrick Foy 
James Lavery 
Magnus Neil 
John Okey 
Robert Hardy 
Samuel Smith 
Reuben Thompson 
Thomas Bond 
John Cook 
William Boowell 
William Griffith 
James Edwards 
Peter Mathews 
Joseph Gibson 
James Madden 
Alexander Stewart 
William Dow 
John Martin 
John Martin, 2d 
Robert Piper 
Daniel Miller 
David Hertly 
William Doe 
Abraham Smith 



Last Residence. 


Names 


Last Residence 


North Kingstown 


Thomas Bill 


Charlestown 




Silas Harry 


ditto 


Richmond 






ditto 


Anthony Salisbury 


Little-Compton 




John Tabor 


ditto 


Morth-Providence 


James Tompkins 


ditto 


ditto 








William Pratt 


Bristol 


New-Shoreham 






ditto 


Ephraim Dolley 


South-Kingstown 


ditto 


John Billington 


ditto 


ditto 


Joseph Billington 


ditto 


ditto 


Cuff Peckham 


ditto 


ditto 


Joshua Nocake 


ditto 


ditto 


Joseph Nocoge 


ditto 




Edward Anthony 


ditto 


Cumberland 






ditto 


Abel Bump 


Smithfield 


ditto 


Benoni Bishop 


ditto 


ditto 


Uriah Jones 


ditto 




Solomon Shippen 


ditto 


Scituate 


Zephaniah Woodward 


ditto 


ditto 


Charles Crosby 


ditto 


ditto 


Enoch Young 


ditto 


ditto 


Elisha Pollard 


ditto 


ditto 


John Ragers 


ditto 




Elias Bishop 


ditto 


Johnston 


John Smith 


ditto 


ditto 


B. Shrieve 


ditto 


ditto 


Benjamin Smith 


ditto 


ditto 


Thomas Herrington 


ditto 


ditto 


Gideon Dexter 


ditto 


Tiverton 


Jonathan Briggs 


Cranston 


ditto 


Daniel Fenner 


ditto 




Eleazer Westcoat 


ditto 


East-Greenwich 


Peleg Johnson 


ditto 




William Russel 


ditto 


Charlestown 


Charles Westcoat 


ditto 


ditto 






ditto 


Reuben Williams 


Gloucester 


ditto 


Amos Wood 


ditto 


ditto 


Nathaniel Stoddard 


ditto 


ditto 


Elisha Inman 


ditto 


ditto 


Joseph Turner 


ditto 


ditto 


Stukely Inman 


ditto 


ditto 


Ephraim Andrews 
Transient Persons 


ditto 


Last Residence. 


Names 


Las} Residence 


Ireland 


William Goodson 


Maryland 


ditto 


Jonah Chace 


Massachusett 


England 


Thomas White 


England 


ditto 


Dominick Brasett 


France 


ditto 


Abraham Voucker 


ditto 


Ireland 


Joseph Gorley 


ditto 


England 


William Thomas 


Philadelphia 


ditto 


Robert Gudgin 


England 


ditto 


Peter Martin 


France 


ditto 


Joseph A. Richards 


ditto 


ditto 


Benjamin Bird 


New-England 


ditto 


Robert Parker 


England 


Connecticut 


Samuel Preston 


Massachusetts 


Ireland 


Henry Dove 


Ireland 


England 


Lewis Busier 


France 


Ireland 


Nathan Lyon 


England 


Scotland 


Edward Butrick 


ditto 


England 


William Darby 


Boston 


Ireland 


Joseph Leveck 


France 


ditto 


"William Robertson 


Ireland 


Pennsylvania 


Joseph Cordiz 


Portugal 


Ireland 


Charles Gorow 


France 


Ireland 


Shubael Chaffee 


Rehoboth 


England 


Joshua Packlet 


England 


ditto 


Abijah Adams 


ditto 



Appendix IV 



353 



Transient Persons 

Names 
Moses Weeks 
Gaus Peck 
Peter Letharge 
Robert Key 
Jonathan Jacobs 
Thomas Force 
Lewis Garrison 
John Smith 
John Sheffield 
Hugh Dixon 
Samuel Cutly 
David Sears 
Nathan Whilesbey 
Moses Perkins 
James Whilesbey 
John M'Clanen 
John Lawrence 
John Fisher 
John Macomber 
Amos Thurber 
William Perkins 
Abraham Rose 
Reuben Macomber 
Ezra Macomber 
George Balen 
Reuben Fish 
Joseph Bishop 
William Briant 
Michael Cooney 
Elick Andrew 
Thomas May 
Anthony Mocan 
John Dugan 
Peter Morrison 
Oliver Washburn 
Nicholas Everett 
John Patterson 
Richard Sipton 
John Searm 
John Brownley 
John Cook 
John Mahony 
Samuel Oaknam 
Nicholas Martin 
Abel Davis 
John Burk 
John Dodge 
Richard Talpey 
William Hatch 
Peirce Donvin 
James Lobb 
Michael Deplumaget 
Peter Berrate 
Benjamin Leroach 
John Dupea 
Edward Donnally 
Alexander Malcom 
William Taylor 
John Legarrow 
Jacob Rotter 
Emanuel Furnace 
John Jones 



Last Residence 

ditto 

Rehoboth 

France 

England 

Ireland 

New-Hampshire 

France 

England 

ditto 
Ireland 
France 
England 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
Ireland 
England 
Attleborough 
Massachusetts 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
Scotland 
Ireland 
England 
Boston 
Ireland 
ditto 
Lebanon 
Salem 
Ireland 
Liverpool 
England 
Ireland 
Maryland 
Ireland 
Salem 
Wales 
Connecticut 
Ireland 
Massachusetts 
Old- York 
England 
Pennsylvania 
England 
France 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
Scotland 
England 
France 
England 
ditto 
ditto 



Transient Persons 

Nantes 
Edward Murfey 
Thomas Lane 
Charles Watson 
William Stafford 
Matthew Berr 
Jabez Pratt 
William Allen 
William Davis 
James King 
John Field 
Matthew Briant 
Thomas Brindley 
Henry Adams 
Joseph White 
Peter Nagle 
Richard Query 
John Lindon 
Robert Charleton 
Joseph Massevey 
Thomas Vanluden 
Joseph Ford 
Anthony Foster 
Frederick Kirker 
Richard Woodrow 
Jaquez Marry 
John Tewdeley 
Hugh M'Dudle 
Edward Beedle 
William Everton 
William Blaisdel 
William Fee 
Richard Smith 
Thomas Charles 
Patrick Dumphy 
Levi Kenny 



Newport 

Providence 

North-Kingstown 

South-Kingstown 

Smithfield 

Cranston 

Richmond 

North-Providence 

New Shoreham 

Cumberland 

Scituate 

Johnston 

Tiverton 

East-Greenwich 

Charlestown 

Little-Compton 

Bristol 

Gloucester 



Transients 
Total 



Last Residence 

Ireland 

England 

ditto 

ditto 

ditto 

ditto 

ditto 

ditto 

ditto 

Scotland 

Ireland 

England 

ditto 

ditto 

Ireland 

ditto 

England 

ditto 

Salem 

Pennsylvania 

Connecticut 

Ireland 
Germany 
Pool 
France 
Salem 
Ireland 
England 
Massachusetts 
England 
ditto 
ditto 
ditto 
Ireland 
Connecticut 



30 

36 

7 

7 

IS 

6 



ISI 

147 



298 



N. B. l6 inlisted since the last Return. 



Examined from the several Lists of Returns : 

vSiMEON Thayer, Major. 



A true Copy, duly examined : 

Witness, Henry Ward, Secr'y. 



INDEX 



(To selected names and topics only) 



Albie, family, 196 
Benjamin, 196 
Prudence, 196 
Allen, Capt. William, 161, 223 
Angell family, 190, 191 
Amphyllis, 5 
Catherine, 209 
H. I., 21, 223 
Hope, 5, 6, 8, 36, 190 
Israel, 

family record of, 185 

ancestry, i, 188-21 1 

boyhood, 12 

later years, 22 

marriage, 16, 17 

death, 27 

family letters, 29 

diary of, 131 

social qualities, 48 

a horseman, 47 

character, 10, 28, 64 

religious belief, 17 

civil office held, 23 

western lands, 26, 31 

military experience, 19, 71 

member of the Cincinnati, 20 

rescues John Rogers, 37 

captain in militia, 1783-94, 25 

volunteers for permanent service, 
84, 92 

battle of Long Island, 95, 96 

at Harlem Heights, 98 

recommended for promotion, 99 

lieutenant-colonel, 100, 102 

commands regiment, 103 

at Trenton, 105 

at Princeton, 107 



Washington's orders to, 109, 113, 
123 

at Red Bank, 113, 114 

his description of defense of Fort 
Mifflin, 115 

at Valley Forge, 119, 125, 222 

recruits regiment, 109 

president of Court Martial, 250 

on Court Martial of Lee, 127 

Newport campaign, 130-136 

takes possession of Newport, 153 

leaves for West Point, 153 

marches to Morristown, 154 

pay due, 140 

letters of, 151, 173, 217 

letter-book, 121 

asks Court of Enquiry, 176 

favorable report of, 177 

at battle of Springfield, 166, 168, 
169, 177 

Arnold's treason, 178 

letters relative to regimental pay, 
179 

leave of absence, 109, 180 

visits Rhode Island, 180 

letters to Washington, 155, 180 

to General Poor, 157 

to Col. Christopher Greene, 158 

retires from army, 182 

letters relative to regimental 
lands, 217 

letters respecting pension, 220 

orderly books of, 223 et seq. 
James, General (Colonel), 72 
James, 36 
John, 7, 190, 191 
Joseph, 278 



355 



356 



Index 



Angell family — Continued 
Martha, i6, 45, 191 

ancestry of, 189, 191-213 
Naomi (Smith), 14 
Oliver, 8, 9, 12, 190 
Richard, 17 
Sarah (Wood), 17 
Stephen, 16, 191 
Susannah (Luther), 17 
Thomas, 2-7, 190, 191, 209 

migration of, 2 

associate of Williams, 3 

marriage, 5 

estate, 6 
Thomas, Colonel, 22 
William of London, 209 
Angell 's Regiment, rolls and returns 

(Appendex II). {See Rhode 

Island regiments. Israel Angell 

Orderly books.) 
Tavern, 22 
Appleton, John, 209 
Army, American: 

conditions at Valley Forge, 125 
criminals, execution of, 326 
desertions from, 142, 145 
deserters from British, enlisted in, 

254 

Felton's company of deserters trans- 
ferred to Philadelphia, 254 

Eastern regiments, the strength of, 
132 

flags {See Rhode Island), 86 

order of march of "Grand Army," 
237 

moves from Morristown, 238 

Invalid corps, 270 

Mar^chauss6e corps, 329 

officers, pay of, 272 

officers, necessities of, 120, 125 

officers, depreciation in pay, 157 

officers, uniform of, 162 

officers' rank settled, 232 

officers captured, 304 

officers need of, 305 

lack of supphes, 138 

pay of, 74, 91 



re-organization, 82, 84, 86 

prayers in, 240 

strength of, 1775, 80 

strength of, 1780, 172 

soldiers, gratuity to, 268 

soldiers, plundering by, 171, 302 

gaming forbidden, 228 

schedule of laundry prices, 260 

brigade-majors, 266 

tailors, 303 

tailors, charges by, 250, 260 

Washington, commander-in-chief, 

79 
Arnold, families of Rhode Island, 

194, 195 
Governor Benedict, 195 
General Benedict, treason of, 178 
Eleazer, 194 
Elizabeth, 194 
Joanna, 195 
Nicholas, 195 
Richard, 194 
William, 194, 195 
Ashton family, of St. Albans, 192, 

193 
Alice, 7, 192 
James, of St. Albans, 192, 193 

of Providence, 193 

of New Jersey, 193 
Mary (Marie), 5, 192 

Babbe, Nicholas, 204 
Barnard, James, 210 

Mary, 209, 210 

Thomas, 210 

William, 210 
Barnes family, 197 

Lydia, 197 

Thomas, 197 

of Hingham, 197 
Barrington, Sir Francis, 210 
Bellow, Bellew, family, 198 

Henry, 198 

Lydia, 198 

Robert, 198 

William, 198 
Bellou, Maturin, 198 



Index 



357 



Boston, Mass., siege and evacuation 

of, 87 
Box, Daniel, 142 
Brigade-majors, duties of, 266 
British army, deserters from, 254 
Bunker Hill, battle of, 78 

court martials resulting from, 83 

Caldwell, Mrs. Hannah, 163 
Carpenter, Lieutenant Abel, 141 
Child, Robert, 208 
Church, Alexander, 331 

Major, 315 
Cincinnati, Society of, 20 

eagle of, 2 1 

R. I. Soc. of, 21 
Clemence family, 199 

Richard, 199 

Sarah, 199 

Thomas, 199 
Cole, Joseph, 282 

John, 282 
Comstock, Ann, 208 

Samuel, 208 
CorneUus, Dr. Elias, 137 

a prisoner, 256 
Crampton, Richard, 204 
Currency, Continental, 157, 175 

Darrach, Lydia, 43 
David, Rev. Ebenezer, 124, 126 
Deruce, John, 267 
D'Estaing, Admiral, 129, 130 
Dexter, Capt. David, 137, 141 
Gregory, 199 

Field, John, 7, 200 

family, 200 

of Herts, 200 

James, 200 

Ruth, 200 

Susan, 200 

Zachariah, 200 
Flags. (See Rhode Island, 86, 154.) 
Ford, Worthington C, 224 
Free, Alice, 210 

Thomas, 210 



French Alliance, celebration of, 126 
army in Rhode Island, 53, 129 
reenforcements, 175 

Fuller, Sarah, 199 

Gardiner family, 201 
George, 201 
Jeremiah, 201 
Robert, 201 
Lydia, 201 
Samuel, 201 
Glover, Rev. Jose, family of, 209 
Greene, Col. Christopher, no 
at Fort Mercer, 114 
his regiment retained in Rhode Is- 
land, 158, 168 
in command R. I. Regiment, 181 
death of, 181 
Greene, Gen. Nathanael, 72 

commands R. I. troops, 1775, 76 
commands at Long Island, 90 
Major-General, 93 
statement of, concerning oflficers, 

92, 119 
at Valley Forge, 122 
commands at Springfield, 164 

account of the battle of, 165 
commands at West Point, 179 
commands Southern Dept., 180 
Gully, AHce, 195 
John, 195 

Harlem Heights, engagement at, 97 
Hawkins, William, 199, 201, 206 

Elizabeth, 206 
Hitchcock, Col. Daniel, 93 

injured, 96 

commands brigade, 103 

at Princeton, 106, 107 

death of, 108, 109 
Holden (Charles), paymaster, 257 
How, Edmund, 200 
Hubbart, Lieut. John, 155 
Hughes, Capt. Thomas, 156 

Independence, Declaration of, 91 
Indian chiefs, visit of, 1780, 60, 176 
Invalids, corps of, 270 



358 



Index 



Knyphausen, General, i6i, 163 

Lafayette, General, in R. I., 128 et seq. 

returns from France, 162 
Lewis, James, 33 

Martha (Angell), 33 
Long Island, battle of, 93 
Lothinmore, Dr., 292 
Loyalists, in R. I., 72 

on Long Island, 90 

confiscated lands of, 173, 217 
Luther, Consider, 17 
Lyndon, Vt., 25 

Lee, Gen. Charles, 81, loi, 103, 118, 
127, 128 

charges against, 127 

Marchante, Julian, 195 
Masham, Lady Elizabeth, 210 

Sir William, 210 
Mifflin, Fort, evacuation of, 115 

{See Red Bank.) 
Mercer, Fort, defense of, 114 

Colonel Angell 's description of, 115 
Militia, of Johnston, R. I., 18 
Millamen, George, 147, 269, 270, 

276 
Monmouth, battle of, 127 
Morristown, N. J., 154, 159 

suffering of army at, 160 
Murray, Mrs. Robert, 42, 97 

Negro troops. {See R.I. Black Regi- 
ment, 120, 121.) 

Tony, enlisted by Colonel Angell, 
120 
Newport, R. I., British occupy, 122 

defenses of, 131, 134 

campaign, 129, 135 

withdrawal of French forces, 134 

enemy transports at, 280 

occupation by Angell 's regiment, 
282-286 

orders dated at, 283 

raids from, 145, 147 

evacuated by British, 153 
New York, occupied by British, 42 



Ohio Company, The, 25 
Olney family, 202, 203 

discovered, 203 

Epenetus, 202, 203 

Jeremiah, Colonel, 181, 223 

Lydia, 8, 202 

Marie, 202 

Martha, 203 

Thomas, 202, 203 
Orderly books of Angell's regiment, 

223 
Owens, Joseph, a spy, 263, 264 

Palmer, Edward, tory and spy, 242- 

244 
Parkhurst, family, 204 

George, 204 

John, Bishop of Norwich, 204 

Nicholas, 204 
Parrish, Dr. John, 256 
Peak, Christian, 195, 205 

Thomas, 195 
Pemberton family, 209 

Alice, 209 

Francis, Sir, 209 

John, 209 

Ralph, 209 

Robert, 209 
Philadelphia, occupied by British, III 

abandoned by British, 127 

threatened by British, 257 
Pierce, Daniel, 200 

John, 200 
Pinner, Anne, 210 

Francis, 210 
Plough patent, the, 207 
Porter, Major John, 175 
Poor, General, death of, 175 
Power, Hope, 211 

Nicholas, 211 
Princeton, N. J., battle of, 106 

day saved by Angell's regiment, 123 
Providence, R. I., county regiment, 74 

description of, 1780, 54 

destruction of, 1675 

meeting house, 1775, 4 

population, 1774, 72 



Index 



359 



Providence regiment — Contimied 
records of, i r , 207 
Washington visits, 46, 89 
Putnam, Eben, 213 

Israel, General, 94, 96, 223, 224 
general orders of, 224 
guard of, 246 

Red Bank, N. J., 112-115 

Reape, Samuel, 205 

Redman, Thomas, family record, 192 

Rhodes family, 205 

Rebecca, 205 

Zachariah, 205 
Rhode Island. (See Army.) 

founding of, I 

character of settlers, i 

in French War, 71 

dawn of the Revolution, 72 

state flag, 155 

population of, 1782, 172 
Rhode Island, Army of Observation, 

73, 77, 83 

troops, first to reach Roxbury, 75 
camp at Jamaica Plain, 76 
inspected by Washington, 81 
number with Washington, 172 
at Princeton restore the day, 123 
at Springfield, 168 

regiments, 12th and 14th Conti- 
nental, 82 

in Greene's brigade, 81 
march to Providence, 89 
arrive at New York, 90 
at Long Island, 91 
recruits for, 109, 163, 171, 172 
pay of, depreciation, 173 
confiscated lands set off to, 173 
reduced to one regiment, 180 
strength of, 84, 85, 98, 102, no 
reenlistments, 86 
officers of, 86, 100 
officers of line of, 336 et seq. 
Declaration of Independence read 

to, 91 
at Harlem Heights, 97-99, 103 
changes in command, 98, 100 



in Nixon's brigade, 98-101 

on the Hudson, loi 

join Washington, 103, iii 

cross Delaware, 104 

at Trenton, 105 

at Princeton, 107 

at Valley Forge, 118, 120, 121, 
125 

pay rolls, 1778, 121 

reorganization of , no, in, 242 

in the Highlands, in 

at Red Bank, 11 2-1 15 

at Monmouth, 127 

march to R. I., 1778, 128 

at Newport, 135, 136 
State Brigade, 100, 108, 136 
Black Regiment, 120, 121, 136, 171 
Rhode Island Assembly renounces al- 
legiance to King George, May, 

1776,91 
addresses Angell's regiment, 169 
commissions officers, 1775, 74 
Rhode Island Regiment, 2d (Angell's) 
returns of, 336 ei seq. 
roster of, 351 

officers in, 124, 336, et seq. 
remain in R. I., 1778-9, 136 et seq. 
mutinies in, 138, 139, 145 
arrears of pay of, 140 
changes in officers, 141, 142, 158, 162 
lack of supplies, 143 
at Barber's Heights, 144 
discipHne in, 148-150 
at Springfield, 164 
gallant behavior of, 168, 169 
address of General Assembly to, 169 
organization of, 1780, 157 
at Morristown, 154 
flag of, 154 
reorganization of, 259 
leaves Newport, 285 
marches to Morristown, 292 
Rome, George, 58 
his country house, 59 

School, a Dame's, 14 

Shepley, Col. George L., 224, 351 



36o 



Index 



Sherburne, Col. Henry, 156, 180 

regiment of, 310 
Smith, AHce, 206 
family, 206-208 

Ann, 207 

Eleanor, 208 

Francis, 207 

Israel, 206 

John, the "mason," 207 

John the "miller," 11, 206, 207 

John of Boston, 208 

John of Warwick, 208 

notes on early John Smith, 206, 
207 

Joseph, 206 

Naomi, 9, 14, 206 

Sarah, 207 
Springfield, N. J., battle, 164 

destruction of, 170 
Staten Island, Stirling's raid on, 160 
Stoughton, Israel, 212 
Stony Point, Wayne's victory, 267 
Stokes, Roger, 209 
Sullivan, Gen., commands at R. I., 129 

Tenney, Dr. Samuel, 124 
Tew, Lieut. Benedict, 141 
Thayer, Major Simeon at Ft. Mifflin, 

115. 123 
Trenton, N. J., 103 

Washington attacks, 104 

battle of, 105 
Treswell family, 209 

Valley Forge, American camp at, 119 



Varnum, Col. Jas. M., desires to 
resign, 92 
brigadier-general, 100 
commands in New Jersey, 112 

Washington, Gen, George, com- 
mander-in-chief, 79 

praises gallant behaviour Angell's 
regiment, 168 

letters to. (See Angell, Israel.) 

praises New England troops, 123, 
124 

extracts from G. O. of, 265 
Waterman, Richard, 2, 3, 191 
Westcott, Stukeley, 195 

Damaris, 195 
Whipple family, 212 

John, 212, 213 

Mary, 212, 213 

Matthew, 213 

Sarah, 212 
Williams family, 209 

Daniel, 211 

James, 209 

Mary, 211 

Rice, 210 

Robert, 209 

Roger, I, 3, 191, 207, 209, 210 

Roger of Virginia, 210 

Sydrack, Shadrack, 210 
Wilshire, George, 200 
Winthrop, Gov. John, 209 
Wood, David, 17 

Yeovil, England, 195 



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